Engagement of stakeholders in the development of a Theory of Change for handwashing and sanitation behaviour change |
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| Authors: | Emmy De Buck Karin Hannes Margaret Cargo Hans Van Remoortel Axel Vande veegaete Hans-Joachim Mosler |
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| Institution: | 1. Centre for Evidence-Based Practice, Belgian Red Cross-Flanders, Mechelen, Belgium;2. Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium;3. Faculty of Social Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium;4. Centre for Population Health Research, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia;5. Environmental Social Sciences, EAWAG, Dübendorf, Switzerland |
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| Abstract: | A Theory of Change (ToC) is an approach to map programmes aimed at inducing change in a specific context, with the goal of increasing their impact. We applied this approach to the specific case of handwashing and sanitation practices in low- and middle-income countries and developed a ToC as part of a systematic review exercise. Different existing sources of information were used to inform the initial draft of the ToC. In addition, stakeholder involvement occurred and peer review took place. Our stakeholders included methodological (ToC/quantitative and qualitative research) and content experts (WASH (Water, Sanitation, Hygiene)/behaviour change), as well as end-users/practitioners, policy-makers and donors. In conclusion, the development of a ToC, and the involvement of stakeholders in its development, was critical in terms of understanding the context in which the promotional programmes are being implemented. We recommend ToC developers to work with stakeholders to create a ToC relevant for practice. |
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| Keywords: | Stakeholder engagement Theory of Change handwashing sanitation behaviour change low- and middle-income countries |
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