Understanding preferences for behaviour change support as part of the NHS Health Check: a qualitative study with...

NHS Health Checks (NHSHCs) provide individuals with cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk scores alongside advice and signposting to behaviour change support. A particular problem is that the support people receive is often poorly delivered, absent or not tailored to the needs of people in deprived communities, which risks exacerbating health inequalities. Improving this support is critical if NHSHCs are to achieve their goals of prevention and equity.

To explore needs and preferences for behaviour change support among adults in deprived areas, using a digital prototype presenting CVD risk information and signposting to services.

A longitudinal qualitative study involving focus groups and semi-structured follow-up interviews.

Adults from minoritised ethnic groups eligible for NHSHCs, recruited online and through a community centre, with both methods targeting high-deprivation areas.

Participants were first shown the digital prototype in focus groups to generate discussion. Follow-up interviews captured more in-depth reflections on needs for behaviour change support. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

We conducted four focus groups and 20 follow-up interviews with 23 adults, predominantly of South Asian ethnicity living in areas of high deprivation. We developed three themes: (1) Trusted information to counter confusion and misinformation; (2) Support that makes change feel possible and meaningful, through culturally and personally relevant advice that addresses unhelpful beliefs about risk reduction and behaviour change and (3) Ensuring access to inclusive, socially connected environments that feel supportive and conducive to action.

For minoritised ethnic adults in deprived areas, NHSHC support should build on everyday practices and foster positive perceptions of services. Alongside service-level changes, policy action is needed to remove structural barriers (eg, cost, safety) that limit people's ability to act on advice. Such changes could enhance the programme's contribution to reducing inequalities in CVD prevention.