Health champions in South London: evaluation of training, and impact on public health

Objectives The Healthy Living Pharmacy framework, introduced in England in 2008, provides a tailored approach to the implementation of pharmacy services locally, facilitated by qualified ‘Health Champions’ ( HC s). The study aimed to evaluate the perceived value of the 1‐day level 2 HC training by assessing knowledge and confidence of HC pre‐ and post‐training, and changes in practice. The views of additional stakeholders on factors that either obstructed or facilitated pharmacy engagement are also explored. Methods This study used a mixed method approach. Pre‐ and post‐training surveys evaluating HC pre‐existing knowledge and understanding of their role were used. Additionally, qualitative semi‐structured interviews were undertaken with four key groups: participating pharmacists, non‐participating pharmacists, Local Pharmaceutical Committee leads and Public Health Leads from Public Health England. Key findings A total of 354 pre‐training evaluation surveys were completed on the training day (100%), compared to 54 post‐evaluation postal surveys with a 19% ( n  = 54/282) response rate. The post‐evaluation of the training indicated that 83% ( n  = 45) of qualified HC were actively implementing their new role, with observed increased confidence and service provision. From the 22 interviews conducted two major themes emerged including: Training and Impact. Training had a positive impact on staff knowledge and confidence plus service delivery. Conclusion An immediate impact was observed in increasing HC knowledge and confidence, service delivery and awareness of facilities for patient sign‐posting. There was no statistical evidence to support a positive effect stemming from training on services. However, it was identified that time and further training were needed to both provide and assess value within local public health.