Complex problems, local solutions: Understanding systems approaches to obesity prevention in the UK

Obesity prevention is a complex public health challenge requiring coordinated, multi-sectoral responses. Systems approaches offer a framework for addressing this complexity, but evidence on their operationalisation is limited. We aimed to examine how systems approaches to obesity prevention are designed, implemented, and evaluated at the local level in the UK, and to identify the factors associated with greater maturity. We co-designed the 38-item Systems Approach Survey and invited all 178 UK local public health teams to participate. The survey captured the design, implementation, maturity, and evaluation of systems approaches. Data were gathered April to October 2024. Quantitative responses were analysed descriptively and qualitative responses using content analysis. Findings are presented by nation and maturity tertile. Seventy teams responded (39%), of which 59 indicated that they were implementing a systems approach (46 in England, five in Wales, six in Scotland, and three in Northern Ireland). On average, approaches engaged 12 sectors, aligned with five other complex social issues (e.g. food insecurity and cost-of-living), and were co-ordinated by four people, committing 49 h/month. Only 23 (39%) were being formally evaluated, mostly in Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Maturity scores ranged from 16 to 93%. Senior leadership support was consistently central to implementation. Local systems approaches to obesity prevention are emerging across the UK, but implementation is largely in early stages. Whilst the complexity of obesity is widely recognised, more support is required to help local teams intervene within the obesogenic environment. • Systems approaches are widely used to support the healthy weight agenda in the UK. • 59 systems approaches were studied, varying considerably in their maturity. • Many were intentionally aligned with other local issues (e.g., food insecurity). • Supportive leadership was imperative for the implementation of a systems approach. • The Systems Approach Survey can be used to build evidence for such approaches.