Evaluating the Healthy Neighbourhood Approach in Rotterdam

Abstract Background Health information does not reach all communities of Rotterdam equally. In response, the municipal health service Rotterdam-Rijnmond (GGD) developed “The Healthy Neighbourhood approach” (HNA), a culturally sensitive, outreach-based program aimed at strengthening health literacy and reducing health inequalities. This intervention is currently being implemented in two vulnerable neighbourhoods in Rotterdam. Healthy'R evaluates the process of the intervention's activities in pursuing three main goals: improved health literacy, reduced barriers to accessing existing services, and enhanced perceived health. Methods The intervention phases are being evaluated using both qualitative and quantitative data (i.e. questionnaires, interviews). In the first two phases of the intervention, n = 137 street-conducted interviews were analysed to identify the most pressing health concerns. Based on these results, two citizen focus groups were held using the Behavioural Change Wheel framework to explore behavioural drivers and barriers. Results Demographic data displays that the GGD effectively managed to reach vulnerable citizens with street-level interviews and focus group discussions. From both measurements, lack of physical activity (PA) emerged as a key concern, with barriers such as limited income to spend, little time and poor physical environment. Social interaction was seen as a motivator for physical activity. Based on these findings, activities promoting PA are developed and tested with inhabitants of the neighbourhood. Recommendations HNA succeeds in engaging residents in selecting suitable interventions, by using a personalized method. The approach seems promising in improving health literacy and community participation through culturally sensitive, outreach-based methods.