How municipalities contribute to making outdoor sports clubs smoke-free

Abstract

Introduction Local governments may play a key role in ensuring outdoor sports clubs to become smoke-free. This study aims to assess the experiences of Dutch municipalities, by investigating their motives, challenges and strategies. Material and Methods We conducted online semi-structured interviews with policymakers of 19 municipalities in the Netherlands. The included municipalities varied in terms of region, population size, and degree of urbanization. Data were analyzed using content analysis. Results Municipalities stimulated sports clubs to become smoke-free by providing information and support, and using financial incentives. Motives of municipalities vary from facilitating a healthy living environment for youth, responding to denormalization of smoking, and collaborating with national preventive policies. Policy makers face several challenges, including reduced capacity and funds, a reluctance to intervene with sport clubs, and uncertain, variable support from within the municipal organization. These challenges are dealt with by using strategies such as embedding smoke-free sports in a broader preventive policy, setting a good example as municipality itself, and working together with other stakeholders in the municipality. Conclusions Dutch municipalities are motivated to undertake a stimulating and advisory role with regards to smoke-free outdoor sports clubs. Challenges may be faced by forming a partnership with other stakeholders as part of broader preventive policies.

Keywords

• smoke-free
• outdoor sports clubs
• the netherlands