Building capacity for change: developing an evidence-based competencies framework to power champions

Background Champions play a critical role in driving innovation, advancing evidence-based practice (EBP) and supporting its implementation across diverse healthcare settings. This paper describes the development of a Champions’ Competencies Framework outlining the knowledge, skills, behaviours, attitudes, roles and responsibilities required of champions. Informed by existing literature, the framework is intended for members of the global Best Practice Champions Network (BPCN), including nurses, health and social service providers, volunteers and students. Methods The framework was developed in three phases. Phase I involved a grey literature scan to identify sources describing champions’ competencies. Phase II followed Arksey and O’Malley’s scoping review methodology. Studies published between 1 January 2010 and 28 March 2025 were identified through searches of Cochrane, CINAHL, Embase, ePub, MEDLINE and PsycINFO using Boolean operators and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH). Titles and abstracts were independently screened by two reviewers followed by a full-text review. Phase III involved thematic synthesis and consultation with external partners to refine the framework. Results 63 studies met the inclusion criteria and were analysed. Seven core competency roles were identified: leader, advocate, collaborator, communicator, content and context expert, facilitator and mentor, supported by 34 performance statements. Conclusion Champions are key drivers of EBP in healthcare. This framework advances understanding of champion competencies and supports skill development, while enabling organisations to design competency-based training and tailor context-specific strategies to enhance the uptake and sustainability of EBPs.