Investment Decisions on Physical Activity Promotion: A Locality Case Study in Complex Public Health Policy Making. Issue 2 (16th April 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Whitelaw, Sandy; Topping, Chris
• Editors: Chau, Ruby C. M.; D'Angelo, Alessio
• Is Part Of: Social policy and society. Volume 22:Issue 2(2023)
• Page Start: 243
• Page End: 266
• Publication Date: 2023-04-16
• Subjects: Best investment -- evidence -- policy -- public health -- physical activity; Social policy -- Periodicals; 361.6105
• DOI: 10.1017/S1474746421000415
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1474-7464

Abstract

Abstract : The role of 'best investment' methodology in shaping priorities in many health policy areas is becoming increasingly prominent. Whilst this has traditionally been seen as a technocratic exercise, the social and political context of such practices and the constructed nature of decisions are now considered significant. In this context, this article reports on a longitudinal case study of such a process that sought to identify 'best investments' in public health interventions related to promoting physical activity. Drawing on a series of conceptual resources, we describe and reflect upon the complex and invested elements that contributed to the grounded decision-making process. In conclusion we suggest the need to adopt a multifaceted and nuanced approach to resource investment decision making, including: deploying a range of appraisal assessment resources; maintaining a long-term processual perspective; involving a variety of stakeholders; accepting and embracing fallibility; and accommodating theoretical and empirical evidence-based principles.