A systematic evaluation of physical activity and diet policies in Scotland: Results from the 2021 Active Healthy Kids Report Card

Tomaz, S. A., Reilly, J. J., Johnstone, A. , Hughes, A., Robertson, J., Craig, L. C.A. and Bardid, F. (2024) A systematic evaluation of physical activity and diet policies in Scotland: Results from the 2021 Active Healthy Kids Report Card. Journal of Public Health, (doi: 10.1093/pubmed/fdae022) (PMID:38389318) (Early Online Publication)

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Abstract

Background Policymaking regarding physical activity (PA) and diet plays an important role in childhood health promotion. This study provides a detailed examination of Scottish government and policy for child and adolescent PA and diet and discusses strengths and areas for improvement. Methods Scottish policy documents (n = 18 [PA]; n = 10 [diet])—published in 2011–20—were reviewed for grading using an adapted version of the Health-Enhancing Physical Activity Policy Audit Tool Version 2. Results There is clear evidence of leadership and commitment to improving PA and diet and tackling obesity in children and adolescents. The allocation of funds and resources for policy implementation has increased substantially over the past decade. Progress through early key stages of public policymaking—policy agenda and formation—has improved. However, there is limited information on later key stages, including policy monitoring and evaluation. Conclusions Childhood PA and diet are a clear priority in Scotland, and PA and diet policies clearly support the desire to achieve other goals, including reducing inequalities and increasing active travel in Scotland. Nonetheless, future policies should be further strengthened through clear(er) plans of implementation, and monitoring and evaluation to support their societal impact.

Item Type:Articles
Additional Information:AJ was supported by the UK Medical Research Council (MC_UU_00022/4) and the Chief Scientist Office (SPHSU19).
Status:Early Online Publication
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Tomaz, Dr Simone and Johnstone, Dr Avril
Authors: Tomaz, S. A., Reilly, J. J., Johnstone, A., Hughes, A., Robertson, J., Craig, L. C.A., and Bardid, F.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > MRC/CSO SPHSU
College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health
Journal Name:Journal of Public Health
Publisher:Oxford University Press
ISSN:1741-3842
ISSN (Online):1741-3850
Published Online:22 February 2024
Copyright Holders:Copyright: © The Author(s) 2024
First Published:First published in Journal of Public Health 2024
Publisher Policy:Reproduced under a Creative Commons licence

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Project CodeAward NoProject NamePrincipal InvestigatorFunder's NameFunder RefLead Dept
3048230041Places and healthRich MitchellMedical Research Council (MRC)MC_UU_00022/4HW - MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit
3048230091Places and healthRich MitchellOffice of the Chief Scientific Adviser (CSO)SPHSU19HW - MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit