Public Health Institute Journal (LJMU)
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No full textOur first guest editorial comes from Professor Zara Quigg who started her academic journey by completing the BSc Public Health degree here at Liverpool John Moores University. Zara is now a Professor in Behavioural Epidemiology, and the Director of the World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre for Violence Prevention.
Conducting a dissertation can be one of the most daunting, challenging and exciting parts of a student’s journey. In the world of public health, there is a never ending list of topics to focus a dissertation on – often the most difficult part is just picking one! We often advise students to choose something that sparks their interest, that can help them learn something new, or build on their existing interests or work. That was certainly the advice I was given many years ago for my BSc Public Health dissertation at LJMU, and I stand by it to this day. My undergraduate focused on my main hobby as a student – nightlife! Something I knew well, and through my personal and public health studies could recognise the imperative to develop healthier nightlife spaces, for nightlife users and workers alike. My study focused on the role of door supervisors in promoting healthier nightlife, and I have had the privilege to have continued my work on developing healthier nightlife settings through my role at the Public Health Institute. Without this opportunity however, my dissertation would have simply sat on a shelf (these were the days when electronic catalogues were rare). This journal offers students a fantastic opportunity to promote and celebrate their work that is accessible to all.
Dissertations provide students with an opportunity to develop and demonstrate a range of skills covering research and data analyses, problem solving, communication, and project and time management amongst others. It aims to enable students to demonstrate their independent research skills. As can be seen in this journal, students at the Public Health Institute are engaging in research that is of relevance to the ever changing challenges to public health. They are identifying critical questions to explore via their dissertation, adopting a range of methodologies, and identifying key learning that can help shape their own thinking, and the wider field. Exploring these abstracts will provide the reader with a fantastic overview of some of the key public health challenges we face today. I am continually enthused by the passion of our students when embarking on their dissertation and congratulate them on their work. As they embark on their future journey, I am sure that the excellent work they have produced, and the knowledge and skills they have obtained will help shape their public health journey, and the influence they can have on promoting the public’s health.
Professor Zara Quig
A Survey Study into The Experiences of Facebook Users Who Purchase Food from Home Food Kitchens
No full textIt is estimated that 600 million people around the world become ill after eating unsafe food. In the UK there are around 2.4 million foodborne cases per year, the burden of foodborne illness is costing the UK approximately £9 billion per year. Research highlights that a significant number of foodborne illnesses happen due to poor food handling practices from food handlers. Eating habits, behaviours and the food environment is changing all the time, there is the expanse of the out-of-home sector which is any outlet which provides food or drink that has been prepared and is ready for immediate consumption. In the UK apps for online food sales have risen, these online food sales are using established food apps as well as social media sites. The aim of this research was to study an individual’s experiences of purchasing food from home kitchens via Facebook. This research was a quantitative study using questionnaires which were distributed on various Facebook sites. The study investigated the reasons why Facebook users purchase food from home kitchens and assessed their knowledge in terms of food safety, exploring their attitudes towards home food kitchen services. This research identified that there is a lack of awareness of information regarding food safety and hygiene. Over half of the participants were unaware of: if the food business was registered, Food Hygiene Rating Scheme, allergen information, food hygiene training and insurance. This study discovered that the Facebook users were confident in making food choices based on recommendations, likes and pictures. This is concerning for public health; consumers are potentially putting themselves at a greater risk. A lack in awareness could result in unregistered businesses continuing to supply food. Recommendations from this study are that there needs to be more awareness. The consumer needs to be aware that food businesses must be registered, which entails an inspection and a Food Hygiene Rating. This research recommends a campaign in partnership where local authorities and the Food Standards Agency work together to develop information which will be widely available for the public, this campaign could include adverts which could pop up on Facebook when people search for food related posts, these adverts could highlight liked pictures and comments of food but then show a filthy kitchen and food handler, this may help in making consumers think about where they are getting the food from, especially when the products are delivered. Part of the campaign would include a food hygiene rating sticker on the food packaging, this could give the consumer more knowledge and help them to make informed choices the same as what they would do when buying food from the high street
An interview study into patterns of gaming throughout the Coronavirus pandemic lockdown periods and its importance in maintaining social relationships
No full textAbstract: Throughout the last 2 years, the coronavirus pandemic has caused havoc on our daily lives, no more so than in our social lives. Multiple periods of lockdown, self-isolation and furlough have interrupted many people’s social interactions. During this time some people have begun to turn towards video games to help with the isolation. The main aim of this study was to ask people if they think video games were a help to them to maintain social relationships during the coronavirus lockdown periods. The study had 4 main objectives: 1. To assess potential changes in gaming habits throughout lockdown periods 2. To explore the negative impact of gaming on mental health 3. To explore the concept of the social dimension of gaming 4. Investigate the positive and negative impact of gaming on health and well-being throughout the coronavirus national lockdowns This was achieved through six interviews with colleagues from GAME, my lecturer and a few friends who all fell into my inclusion criteria for the study. From analysis of the interviews, I found that despite being from different backgrounds, participants all had similar experiences when it came to playing video games over the lockdown periods in the United Kingdom. Despite the vast size of the gaming community in the UK in terms of both content and players, this research has proven just how together the community is as a whole. Gaming is, as stated by the tagline of PlayStation “For the Players”
Exploring gender differences between UK construction workers with respect to Health and Safety in the workplace and how this can be a barrier for women entering the construction industry.
No full textMales have long dominated the UK construction industry stemming from generations of conventional attitudes and these discrepancies across various construction sectors, genders, and ages are investigated in this study. Encouraging female construction workers may lead to larger economic benefits and change current attitudes and preconceptions, while increasing public awareness of gender inequity in construction may affect public health. This study aims to investigate gender differences in workplace health and safety among UK construction workers and how this may act as a barrier to women entering the industry. Data was acquired through an anonymous online questionnaire with 91 respondents (85 male and 6 female). The data collected from respondents was analysed to explore similarities and differences between genders in terms of legislation, experiences, attitudes, and opinions regarding this matter. The findings showed that males believed the most common reason for the lack of females in the industry was due to a physical disadvantage, whereas females believed it was due to a lack of respect for women and malicious banter within the industry. Male and female attitudes differed in terms of attitudes toward health and safety. Males displayed more negative attitudes towards their experiences working with health and safety while females displayed more rational choices, and awareness around health and safety legislation. These differences could act as a barrier for women entering the industry as their more rational attitudes to health and safety are not seen as complying with the norm. Males generally dominate higher-risk jobs due to cultural standards, which research suggests could be related to the physical and mental strain of the professions which place males at a biological advantage. However, females\u27 typical tendency to express more reasonable and sympathetic attitudes towards health and safety in this study might imply that they are more invested in not making mistakes than men which could be a benefit in lowering risk in health and safety-related occupations. Furthermore, encouraging women to work in these industries could provide role models for future generations - opening greater career opportunities for the next generation of women whilst helping to meet the construction industry\u27s continued demand for labour. The study findings suggest a clear need for employees in the UK construction industry, as well as the general public, to be educated regarding gender inequalities in the industry and how they can affect women\u27s career prospects. Overall, this would result in better workplace health and safety for men and women in construction careers and more women pursuing their preferred vocations
A study of tenants\u27 experiences living in social housing during the Covid 19 pandemic in the Liverpool City region.
No full textHousing and health have a strong relationship. The conditions in which someone calls home can determine their overall health and wellbeing, physically and mentally. Homes have standards to meet for them to be habitable, a home also needs to be affordable and provide a stable and secure base. In this research, social housing will be studied. Homes provided by housing associations (non-profit organisations that own, let, and manage rented housing) or local governments are referred to as social housing. It is designed to be affordable and easily available to those who are unable to access ownership of a home. The aim of the research was to explore tenants’ experiences of living in social housing during the Covid-19 Pandemic in the Liverpool City Region, focusing particularly on the third national lockdown dating January to July 2021. The study found few housing organisations contacted their tenants during the pandemic lockdown to offer advice or help during the isolated period. However, if necessary, household repairs were made, which is a requirement for housing organisations to keep their properties in good working order. The data from the questionnaire was analysed and provided thorough feedback from the tenants on their experiences of living in social housing during this time. Tenants did suffer with multiple problems such as overcrowding, rent arrears and job loss, however this period was also a time for them to relax, spend more time with family and friends, more community spirit was felt and there was less crime in the area. Recommendations to put forth guidelines for housing associations and the government in the case of a pandemic would be essential
A cross-sectional survey study exploring knowledge, attitudes and food safety practices of UK mothers in the domestic environment.
No full textFood safety is a public health concern. Domestic environments are the first site where foodborne infections emerge as a result of inadequate personal and/or environmental cleanliness, resulting in an elevated risk of infection. The aim of this study is to explore the knowledge attitudes and food safety practices of UK mothers in the domestic environment. The topic domestic food safety if often neglected, there is limited literature about it and if domestic food safety is discussed then usually it covers foodborne illness and their types and not regarding the knowledge, attitude and food safety practice of food handlers at homes which are usually mothers. A survey design was adopted using anonymous questionnaire administrated online. Questionnaire was designed using JISC. Fifty-five participants responded to a link posted on Mumsnet the largest parent network in the UK. The questionnaire was divided into three sections including food safety knowledge, attitudes and practice. Results were analysed and interpreted using Microsoft Excel using graphs and tables also, an online calculator was used to run Chi Squared test for comparison. Results showed that participants of this study had a good knowledge regarding food safety with total average of 4.96 out of 6, while showing no link between level of education and average of knowledge. Adding to that, participants also had a good level of food safety attitudes but with some limitations. Food safety practice is what participants lacked the most as most responses where to unsafe practices that could result in foodborne illnesses. According to the Chi Squared test done on one of the practices sections the result was not statistically significant as the chi-square statistic was 3.39. Food safety is a global public health issue that can have an impact on people around the world which needs to be addressed. A large percentage of it being caused by behaviours in the home kitchen. Food safety is a burden in the UK and has a direct effect on economy. There is no law to be applied for domestic food safety however, there is some advice out there by international organizations that can reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses at home by ensuring food is safe. Also, more domestic food safety research should be conducted and especially in the UK to fill the gap and to try to understand mother’s domestic food safety handling to be able to plan a proper awareness plan and interventions
What Support is in Place for Hoarding Behaviour and is it Working?
No full textThis dissertation explores how interventions and support that are put in place for people with hoarding behaviours are working to reduce this. A literature review presents the theories around hoarding and highlight the effects it can have on the individual and others around them. It also presents the different types of hoarding behaviours and the stages of this disorder. Furthermore, it presents evidence of the process of being diagnosed and how it is treated. Such a study is important due to the public health concerns that hoarding behaviours can have on the individual and the public. In addition, reducing hoarding behaviours through interventions can prevent further government costs and health risks. The method used within this study has been secondary data research through internet searching. This is supported by an evaluation of the research methods used and a reflection of the limitations that were unforeseeable within the research. This is followed by a presentation of the findings and discussion of this research, giving particular focus to the interventions that are in place
A Survey Study To Explore Liverpool John Moores University Students’ Attitudes Towards The Covid-19 Vaccine
No full textThe World Health Organization announced COVID-19 a pandemic in March 2020, after the virus that caused COVID-19, which was detected in December 2019 in Wuhan, China had spread globally (WHO, 2020). Our way of living changed drastically; non-essential stores, schools, and offices were closed with the intention to prevent and minimise the transmission of the virus and protect the public. In December 2020, the COVID-19 vaccine (BioNtech/Pfizer) was approved for use in the UK, since then different COVID-19 vaccines have been developed and approved for use in the UK (Sasse, 2020). With the availability of COVID-19 vaccines and boosters there is not sufficient data available on student’s acceptance and their perceptions towards the willingness of receiving the COVID-19 vaccine in the UK. Acceptance of COVID-19 vaccines will be an important step in combating and reducing COVID-19 but achieving high uptake may be difficult. The purpose of the study was to explore and investigate Liverpool John Moores University students’ attitude towards the COVID-19 vaccine and factors that influence their decision on receiving or not receiving the vaccine. The study used a quantitative method and used an online questionnaire to obtain the data. Convenience sampling was the method used by the researcher. The questionnaire was completed by 32 students studying at Liverpool John Moores University. The researcher analysed and obtained data from the questionnaire by using Jisc online survey and Microsoft Excel, which allowed the researcher to produce bar charts, tables and pie charts. Majority of students had a positive attitude towards both the COVID-19 vaccine and vaccination in general. The main findings of the research showed that overall knowledge and COVID-19 vaccine uptake was good but not with everyone. Findings showed that student’s attitudes towards the COVID-19 vaccination are influenced by information obtained from family, friends, health professionals and social media, which have a significant impact on individual’s perceptions and decision making towards the COVID-19 vaccine. Respondents that refused or were hesitant towards the COVID-19 vaccine stated that their main reasons for not receiving the vaccine was not believing the vaccine is safe or effective, side effects, and concerns about the ingredients used. Therefore, in the researcher viewpoint more research and targeted interventions are needed to understand student’s attitudes towards the COVID-19 vaccine. Studies and focused interventions to engage students in health campaigns in their universities, communities and social spaces and make vaccination available on campuses to increase COVID-19 vaccine uptake. A multidisciplinary approach should be considered in attempting to reduce negative attitudes, lack of trust, misunderstanding about the COVID-19 vaccines to help gain trust, decrease misunderstanding and provide sufficient and accurate information about the COVID-19 vaccine in order to minimise vaccine hesitancy
A survey study to investigate food handler’s knowledge, attitudes and behaviour towards food safety and food practices in restaurants in Liverpool.
No full textFood establishments are on the rise in the United Kingdom, producing a wide variety of cuisine to cater for a variety of tastes in a global market. A large majority of the population will experience a foodborne disease at some point in their lives, and in 2018 alone there were estimated to be 2.4 million FBD-related cases in the UK resulting in 180 deaths per year. Local Authorities monitor and inspect these establishments periodically, however recent constraints have seen a decline in resources (staff, money, time) that aid the delivery of food safety controls. In order to develop the most effective methods for improving food safety practices, it is important to examine where the risks are coming from. The aim of this research study was to explore food handlers’ knowledge, attitudes, and behaviour towards food safety and food handling practices in restaurants within Liverpool. This quantitative study used an online multiple-choice questionnaire to gather data from the target population of food handlers and to identify any common themes between participants. Convenience and snowballing sampling methods were used to gain responses from 52 participants. The data gathered from the survey was analysed using a combination of Microsoft Excel and SPSS version 28. Participant’s demographics were also gathered to determine similarities or differences between education, training and work experience. The results of the questionnaire are presented in the form of pie charts, bar graphs and scatter plots. Statistical tests were also performed using One way ANOVA tests to determine any statistical significance of results. The results of the study reveal that food handlers in Liverpool food businesses have a generally satisfactory level of food safety knowledge. Their attitudes expressed in the questionnaire demonstrated a strong positive approach with overall minimal risky behaviours towards food safety and hygiene practices. The majority of participants believe food safety is important to them and one of their main responsibilities within the workplace. However, the results show that certain areas of knowledge surrounding harmful pathogens (bacteria) were lacking. A significant amount were unaware how to best control bacterial growth on food, and how difficult it can be to identify contaminated foods. Even though the results show a protective behaviour towards food safety, some aspects of behaviour like coming to work when sick and using their phone in food handling areas need to be emphasised. In determining food handlers’ knowledge, attitudes and behaviours towards food safety, several recommendations can be made. These include the development of a more effective training regime where theory is combined with practice and risk-based approach; and the necessary systems and resources are in place to correctly implement food safety. To improve food handlers’ knowledge, attitudes and behaviours towards food safety the researcher recommends that food establishments focus on a combination of processes such as behavioural change ideas and offering support, motivation and positive reinforcement. This, combined with the positive attitudes and behaviours of senior managers can encourage a food safety culture within food establishments
A qualitative study of attitudes and perceptions of COVID-19 vaccines among ethnic minorities in the UK
No full textCOVID-19 vaccines are being used to control the spread and effects of the coronavirus pandemic that has killed over six million people worldwide and presents an unusual challenge to public health. The UK began to offer vaccines to high-risk groups first after the 8th of December 2020. Despite being disproportionately affected by COVID-19 and the importance of the vaccines, willingness to be vaccinated among ethnic minority populations varies for reasons outside the accessibility of vaccines. This study explores the attitudes and perceptions of COVID-19 vaccines among ethnic minorities in the UK. A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews was conducted via Microsoft Teams with eleven participants in November 2021. Convenience and snowballing sampling were used. Data was collected, transcribed, and coded using thematic analysis. Of the 11 participants, four had overall good perception, and positive attitudes about COVID-19 vaccination while seven said that they were not vaccinated and did not intend to do so. Most of the participants stated that vaccines were developed too quickly hence they did not trust them. Participants also stated possible side effects that they feared could cause long-term ill-health and felt that the Government did not do enough to educate the public about COVID-19 and address discrimination and racism towards ethnic minorities. Despite the misinformation and the conspiracy theories circulating on social media, a few participants said they got vaccinated because it was the right thing to do and wanted to go back to their normal lives as soon as possible. Overall, there was COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among the participants in this study. Negative attitudes and poor perceptions toward the COVID-19 vaccination were important factors in the low uptake of the vaccines. The researcher’s findings will add to what is already known about the factors that influence attitudes and perceptions towards COVID-19 vaccination uptake among ethnic minorities although there is a need for further research on the topic with a large population and a random sampling method for representation of a population
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