Einflussfaktoren beim Aufbau von Präventionsketten in Neubaugebieten am Beispiel des Münchner Stadtteils Freiham – eine qualitative Studie

INTRODUCTION: “Präventionsketten” (prevention chains) are integrated municipal strategies to promote health and social participation for children, adolescents, and families and to prevent the negative consequences of child poverty. They exist as intersectoral networks in multiple communities in Germany. However, the implementation of such intersectoral networks in new residential development areas has not yet been systematically examined. As part of the process evaluation of the intervention “Präventionskette Freiham”, which is being implemented in the Munich district of Freiham, a qualitative interview and focus group study was conducted. The aim was to identify relevant influencing factors for the implementation of this integrated municipal strategy. METHODS: For this study, repeated interviews were conducted with the network management of the “Präventionskette”, and a focus group was held with representatives of the involved municipal departments. Furthermore, interviews were undertaken with 12 professionals working locally in the education, social and health sectors. The data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis following Mayring. RESULTS: According to participants, general key influencing factors for a successful implementation were the provision of financial and human resources as well as the support from local policy makers and high-level administrators. The network coordination, transparent communication, the integration of the interests of different network members, and a clear communication of the added value of engaging with the network were central factors for successful operations. Regarding the specific setting of a new residential development area, implementing demand-oriented network structures with only a small number of initial residents and a still-to-be-established supporting infrastructure presented challenges. CONCLUSION: Sufficient funding and commitment by policy makers and administrators are central influencing factors for the implementation of “Präventionsketten” in municipalities. Especially in a new residential development area without an established infrastructure, the development process requires a long-term commitment.