Using participatory systems mapping to understand young people’s involvement in sexual health policy and service improvement

Lewis, R. , Blake, C. , Turner, B. and Mitchell, K. (2023) Using participatory systems mapping to understand young people’s involvement in sexual health policy and service improvement. UK Society for Behavioural Medicine Annual Scientific Meeting 2023, Birmingham, UK, 28-29 Mar 2023.

Abstract

Background: Despite increased interest, involvement of young people in sexual health policymaking and service improvement remains uncommon. Existing attempts typically both lack sustainability (e.g. isolated policy consultation activities) and meaningful collaboration between young people, policymakers and practitioners. The CONUNDRUM Action project [2022-23] aimed to understand the dynamics underpinning young people’s involvement in shaping sexual health policy and services in Scotland, by building a system map through extensive multi-stakeholder participatory activities. Methods: The systems map was co-produced in a multi-stage process with stakeholders across Scotland, including young people, policymakers, health service providers and charity sector actors. The systems map was built during a series of online workshops and using key informant interview data. Young people were actively involved, including interviewing stakeholders. The final map is a result of a multi-stakeholder online validation process. Results: The system map increased stakeholders’ understanding of the current (lack of) involvement of young people in sexual health policymaking and service improvement. The map was used to identify key leverage points for increasing young people’s involvement. Conclusion(s): Involving young people in PSM both as participants and researchers strengthened the mapping process and led to meaningful collaboration between young people, policymakers and practitioners.

• Item Type: Conference or Workshop Item
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Mitchell, Professor Kirstin and Lewis, Dr Ruth and Blake, Ms Carolyn and Turner, Miss Billie
• Authors: Lewis, R., Blake, C., Turner, B., and Mitchell, K.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > MRC/CSO SPHSU

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