Experiences, attitudes, barriers and facilitators of physical activity among first-generation Somali migrants aged 40+ years in Bristol, United Kingdom

Ige, Janet

Abstract

Physical inactivity is a significant public health issue among adults and older adults from Black African and other racially minoritised groups, including the Somali community. Lack of physical activity is an important contributor to high levels of inequalities among the Somali community in Bristol. There is insufficient evidence on what works to improve physical activity levels among the Somali community. Therefore, this thesis aims to explore the experiences, barriers and facilitators of physical activity among adults and older adults from the Somali community in Bristol, United Kingdom. A systematic review of qualitative studies on the barriers and facilitators of physical activity among adults and older adults from racially minoritised groups was undertaken first to establish the scope and nature of existing evidence. An explanatory sequential mixed-methods approach involving a survey to determine physical activity levels among the target group and investigate awareness, barriers and facilitators of physical activity was subsequently undertaken. A follow-up qualitative study was conducted with ten members of the Somali community to further explore the critical issues identified in the survey. The findings from the research show that, although members of the Somali community in Bristol are generally aware of the health benefits of physical activity, there are important environmental, sociocultural and practical barriers that prevent them from engaging in physical activity. These factors range from lack of suitable outdoor spaces to lack of culturally appropriate facilities within the local environment. This study demonstrates the importance of designing targeted and culturally appropriate interventions to improve uptake of physical activity. Community-led initiatives can improve participation in physical activity among members of the Somali community. Findings also highlight the need for adopting a whole-systems approach to dealing with physical inactivity among racially minoritised communities.

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Apr 21, 2022
• Publicly Available Date: Dec 15, 2022
• Keywords: Physical activity, Minority ethnic group, Inequalities, Racially minoritised, Somali community
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/9363750
• Award Date: Dec 15, 2022