Vertikal og horisontal samhandling som tilnærming i folkehelsearbeidet : En kvalitativ casestudie av Røde Kors satsingen «FUN 365»

Abstract

Background and purpose: The theme of this study is collaboration as an approach in public health. The study focuses on the experience of actors from various sectors and government levels involved in a collaboration regarding complex public health issues such as child poverty. Method: The study is based on a qualitative design where a case study is used as a strategy of research. The empirical basis is FUN 365, a measure initiated by the Red Cross. FUN 365 is a child and family camp concept aimed at children and families affected by child poverty. The method used for collecting data is mainly qualitative research interview, as well as document analyses. A strategic selection of 18 informants has been conducted, which includes involved actors from public and voluntary sector, as well as participants of FUN 365. Results: The results in this study shows a mutual understanding among actors from public and voluntarily sector of collaboration as an appropriate and important approach in public health aimed at complex challenges, such as child poverty. Simultaneous, interaction between actors from different sectors and government levels requires the existence of prime movers who work continuously with collaboration, information and anchoring of the measure. Different sectors represent different cultures, with their distinct working methods and systems. This makes collaboration between them challenging. The actors also express that they possess different knowledge of effective measures regarding child poverty. In addition, the municipal actors experience that recruitment of participants to FUN 365 is challenging because child poverty is characterized by a significant stigma. The families participating in FUN 365 describes an experiences of unity, inclusion and a sense of coping, and that they bring these positive experiences back to their everyday life. Conclusion: Vertical and horizontal collaboration are considered an important approach in public health regarding child poverty. In this study, FUN 365 appears as an example of an appropriate approach in efforts to counteract the consequences of growing up in poverty. Keywords: Social inequality in health, child poverty, collaboration, voluntary sector, public sector, public health, measures