A process evaluation of co-produced “Sit Less at Work” interventions in three diverse organisational settings

Oral Presentation B6.6

Authors

  • Kelly Mackenzie University of Sheffield
  • Elizabeth Such University of Sheffield
  • Paul Norman University of Sheffield
  • Elizabeth Goyder University of Sheffield

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.v14i3.526

Keywords:

Sedentary Behaviour, Sitting Time, Occupational, Workplace, Process Evaluation

Abstract

Background: Prolonged workplace sitting is associated with increased risks of morbidity and mortality. Interventions to reduce workplace sitting time have demonstrated mixed results, suggesting context may play an important role. Purpose: To conduct a process evaluation to determine the intervention fidelity of three co-produced “Sit Less at Work” interventions implemented in diverse organisations with minimal researcher involvement to replicate the real-world context. Methods: A mixed methods “before and after” study design was used. Convenience samples of staff were recruited from three UK-based organisations (a small private sector business, a charity and a local authority) to complete pre- and post-intervention questionnaires and measures of workplace sitting time (using activPAL3™ devices) and participate in post-intervention focus groups. Intervention implementers and key personnel were recruited to participate in post-intervention focus groups/interviews. Results: None of the interventions were implemented as intended and no reductions in workplace sitting time were observed. Barriers to intervention implementation related to context and organisational culture and included workload pressures, the social norms of sitting, competing organisational priorities, and lack of management support. Conclusions: Shifts in organisational culture and ingrained social norms are required to support the effective implementation of future workplace sit less interventions. Such changes could be achieved with buy-in from all levels of management, by developing and implementing local policies and by ensuring adequate time and human resource investment. Funding: This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research Doctoral Research Fellowship Programme (individual grant, DRF-2016-09-023).

Published

2021-09-30

How to Cite

Mackenzie, K., Such, E., Norman, P., & Goyder, E. (2021). A process evaluation of co-produced “Sit Less at Work” interventions in three diverse organisational settings: Oral Presentation B6.6. The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, 14(3). https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.v14i3.526