NHS - Making Every Contact Count - Consultations

Help improve local health - be part of the conversation

Northumbria University are working with Bolton Council and Bolton NHS Foundation Trust on a collaborative research project to evaluate the Making Every Contact Count (MECC) programme in Bolton.

What is the 'Making Every Contact Count' (MECC) programme

MECC is an approach to behaviour change that uses the millions of day-to-day interactions that organisations and staff have with those in the community, to support them in making positive changes to their physical and mental health and wellbeing.

In Bolton, a training programme for NHS, council, and social care staff is being developed to help them feel more confident having everyday conversations about staying well and making every contact count. Northumbria University are working with Bolton Council and NHS Foundation Trust to understand the impact of this training on staff and how useful this programme is for people who use local services.

Why we want residents & stakeholders to have their say

By taking part in the study, participants have the opportunity to contribute to this important evaluation and the enhancement of MECC in Bolton. By understanding what works well and where improvements can be made, the study could help develop more effective training and long-term support for staff to deliver MECC and improve the quality of care they provide.   

How do I share my views?

• Attend an individual or group feedback session (1 hour, online or in person).
• Share your views and lived experiences.

How will the team use the information provided?

A summary of the findings from the feedback study will be used as part of the wider evaluation of the MECC programme in Bolton. Any identifiable information will be anonymised and stored securely.

Sign up to have your say

Where will the sessions to place?

The sessions will be held flexibly, depending on participant’s preferences. During sign-up, participants can select whether they would prefer an individual interview or group feedback session (with other service users). They can also select whether they would like these sessions to be held remotely (by telephone or online via Microsoft Teams) or in-person at the University of Greater Manchester. Participants will receive £20 as a thank you for taking part. 

If you would like support to sign up to one of the sessions, please contact the team:

• Dr Angela Rodrigues: angela.rodrigues@northumbria.ac.uk. Telephone: 0191 227 3402
• Dr Shannon Allen: shannon.l.allen@northumbria.ac.uk

Note: To take part you must be over 18 years, from Bolton and have had a conversation with health or social care professional about staying well - (ie: being more active, healthy eating, lifestyle changes).