Engagement of stakeholders in the development of a Theory of Change for handwashing and sanitation behaviour change

Abstract

A Theory of Change (ToC) is an approach to map programmes aimed at inducing change in a specific context, with the goal of increasing their impact. We applied this approach to the specific case of handwashing and sanitation practices in low- and middle-income countries and developed a ToC as part of a systematic review exercise. Different existing sources of information were used to inform the initial draft of the ToC. In addition, stakeholder involvement occurred and peer review took place. Our stakeholders included methodological (ToC/quantitative and qualitative research) and content experts (WASH (Water, Sanitation, Hygiene)/behaviour change), as well as end-users/practitioners, policy-makers and donors. In conclusion, the development of a ToC, and the involvement of stakeholders in its development, was critical in terms of understanding the context in which the promotional programmes are being implemented. We recommend ToC developers to work with stakeholders to create a ToC relevant for practice.

Keywords:

• Stakeholder engagement
• Theory of Change
• handwashing
• sanitation
• behaviour change
• low- and middle-income countries

Acknowledgements

We would like to thank the following members of the Advisory Group: Alfonso Alvestegui (Unicef Mozambique, Mozambique), Colex Chapendeka (Malawi Red Cross Society, Malawi), Chaitali Chattopadhyay (Water Supply & Sanitation Collaborative Council, Geneva), Libertad Gonzales (The Netherlands Red Cross Society, The Netherlands), Harun Joho (British Red Cross, United Kingdom) Brian Kae Enriquez (Philippine Red Cross, Republic of the Philippines).

We also thank the additional stakeholders, who were not part of the Advisory Group and for their participation to the second stakeholder meeting in Geneva and their useful feedback: Claire Grisaffi (British Red Cross), Anne Walsh (WSUP), Foyeke Tolani (Oxfam), Valérie Cavin (Helvetas), Sergio Gelli (ICRC), Mariyam Asifa (IFRC), Hugh Waddington (3ie), Beryl Leach (3ie), Robert Aunger (LSHTM), Ada Oko-Williams (WaterAid), Suzanna Ferron (consultant) and Ana Obiols (consultant).