Using a CBPR approach to develop a family-centred weight management support programme for children

Community-based participatory research (CBPR) is a community centred approach involving families and others in the community to be actively involved within the research process, by empowering those within the community and allowing for the sharing of knowledge (e.g. Israel et al, 1998). The current study involves parents, children and group leaders involved in a community-based weight management support programme to actively participate in research, including the development of research aims and questions, data collection, data analysis, and dissemination of findings. The current research uses visual tools including the development of board games allowing participants to evaluate the programme from their own perspective, as well as evaluate the programme as a group. The study will also use the board game, in addition to other visual research methods, in order to understand the impact of the programme on the participants own lives, their families lives, and their community. The findings of this study will be utilised to develop a sustainable and effective family centred community-based weight management support group. The weight management support group is based in an area of low-socioeconomic status in Ayrshire.