Stand up for health: Programme theory for an intervention to reduce sedentary behaviour in contact centres

Laura Tirman, Hannah Biggs, Kathleen Morrison, Jillian Manner, Divya Sivaramakrishnan, Graham Baker, Ruth G. Jepson

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract / Description of output

Background
Contact centre staff spend up to 95 % of their day seated, which can lead to a range of negative health outcomes. The aim of this study was to develop a programme theory for a complex intervention to reduce sedentary behaviour in contact centres.

Methods
The 6SQuID model was used. A literature review, and focus groups at one contact centre were used to: understand the problem (step 1); identify modifiable factors (step 2); and develop a theory of change (step 3). A workshop shaped a theory of action (step 4), and the programme theory was refined after testing activities over 6 months (step 5). The intervention is currently undergoing further evaluation and feasibility testing in a larger scale stepped wedge randomised controlled study in 11 contact centres (Step 6).

Results
Step 1: Limited opportunity to sit less, and move more at work was identified as the main problem. Step 2: Modifiable factors were identified at four levels of the centre. Step 3: A theory of change was developed around cultural norms and individual behaviour change. Step 4: Actions were developed to ‘activate’ the theory of change. Step 5: Activities were implemented, and adapted over 6 months and the programme theory was refined.

Conclusion
The programme theory behind this intervention is robust, evidence based, adaptive and transferable.
Original languageEnglish
Article number102002
JournalEvaluation and Program Planning
Volume89
Early online date16 Sept 2021
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2021

Keywords / Materials (for Non-textual outputs)

  • sedentary behaviour
  • intervention development
  • workplace
  • contact centre
  • physical activity

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