Beliefs, barriers and control: a model for research into social exclusion

摘要

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to introduce an innovative qualitative methodology, thernbeliefs, barriers and control (BBaC) model. The BBaC model facilitates the understanding of howrnperceptions are formed through actors' interactions with their environments and each other, enablingrntargeted solutions for social and organisational questions.rnDesign/methodology/approach - The paper draws on a case study of a sports-based interventionrnthat addresses the physical activity levels of at risk youths in Stoke-on-Trent. It is an account of howrnthe BBaC model was used to provide an understanding of barriers to participation in sport and activernrecreation amongst the target population. The study involved youth workers utilising the BBaCrnapproach in focus groups with young people (YP) and staff. Moreover, the model was used in this casernstudy in conjunction with the European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM) framework,rnwhich demonstrated how this qualitative methodology can be used with "harder" focusedrnmanagement tools to produce strategies for social and organisational improvement.rnFindings - The BBaC model was used to collect rich qualitative data from the target YP. This wasrntranslated into action points using the EFQM model which were used in strategic and policy decisionrnmaking; delivering improved results for the target YP.rnOriginality/value - The paper introduces an innovative and original methodology, the BBaC model,rnand demonstrates how it can be used to deliver strategies that have positive impacts.