Documentation and Discussion of the Process of a Successful Partnership Using an Intersectoral Action Framework: Marrickville Walk Wise Project

Abstract

Working in partnership has been recommended as a way to achieve health promotion outcomes. This paper uses an intersectoral action framework to document and discuss the partnership process of a local government walking program. Implementation of the Marrickville Walk Wise Project (MWWP) used a partnership strategy between health promotion and a local Council, drawing from diverse campaigns, programs and funding bodies. Results include an audit, modification and signage of walking routes, and establishment of walking groups among resident migrant populations. An inter-sectoral action framework provided a useful method for documentation and would be an effective planning tool. The concept of 'Capacity Building' is a framework for the development of sustainable organisational structures, resources and commitment to health improvement. Partnerships are a key element of this. An intersectoral action framework of necessity, opportunity, capacity, relationship, action and sustainable outcomes facilitated the effective documentation and discussion of the partnership process. This framework could be equally useful as a planning and evaluation tool. An intersectoral action framework provided an effective means to document the process of implementing partnership work of the MWWP. In retrospect, it was recognised that the intersectoral action framework could have been applied to the planning and evaluation process as well. The intersectoral action framework is an effective tool to plan, document and evaluate and can act as a guide for working in partnership with other sectors on health promotion programs. It is particularly useful in further understanding the processes behind such programs.