This briefing paper presents the findings from a study to establish the parameters of a potential Healthy Working Practices demonstration and research project. This feasibility study was commissioned by the Glasgow Centre for Population Health.

Classic diffusion and adoption theory can be utilised effectively as a mechanism for understanding how employers are voluntarily motivated (and deterred) from introducing healthy working practices in their workplaces. This briefing paper outlines the approach taken and mix of methods used in the study and presents the key findings and study conclusions. The research suggested a number of learning points which may inform the development of future strategies which may encourage employers to adopt healthy working practices. These relate to the motivation and attitudes of employers and the processes through which attitudes and motivating strategies may be identified. The paper concludes by making a number of recommendations on which future research may be based.