The challenge of doing public health research in local authorities: an exploratory study
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Authors
Dr. Mohamed Elshishtawy
Dr. Catherine Heffernan
Contact
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Issue Date
06-May-26
Type
Conference Abstract
Language
Keywords
Embedded researchers , Public Health Research Capacity , Implementation/scale up , Rapid evaluation , Neighbourhood health & place-based working
Alternative Title
Abstract
Background:
Public Health relies on evidence from research that guide policy development and interventions. Despite research being a core competency for public health professionals, its implementation in local authority public health teams remains limited. Local authorities have complex environments with many organisational and structural factors impacting research capacity.
Objectives:
This study explores current research approaches by local public health teams within a London Integrated Care System (ICS) with the aim to identify the support required to grow public health research capacity and capability.
Methods:
Five group interviews were conducted with public health professionals employed in local government settings in London, England. All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and subjected to thematic analysis using Braun and Clarke's approach. Results were validated six months after through a member-checking workshop that involved 12 consultants in public health within the same ICS.
Results:
Four key themes were identified: (1) public health research is broader than primary research; (2) research is constrained by local authority culture; (3) research is reactive and individual; and (4) there is strength in cross-borough collaboration. Teams were motivated and well placed to undertake research but constrained by limited capacity, complex governance, and short-term priorities. Participants emphasised the need for protected research time, shared data systems, ethical guidance, and stronger academic partnerships.
Discussion/Learning for Wider Community:
Local authorities need transitioning from individual efforts to formalised system level support through strengthening research governance by developing shared frameworks for ethics, data sharing, and research approvals. A central public health research hub should be established to coordinate research activity and support capacity building across the system. Furthermore, strategic partnerships should be prioritised and shaped to implement flexible models that guarantee stronger academic–practice ties. Moreover, research time and dissemination of research outputs should also be incorporated into the job descriptions of local authority public health personnel to support the value of these outputs. Co-producing research with voluntary organisations enables the findings of the research to be community driven and integrated into the broader health and care system.