REFRESH (Reducing families' exposure to second-hand smoke in the home)

ASH Scotland, in partnership with the Universities of Aberdeen and Edinburgh is funded by the Big Lottery Fund research grants programme to manage an innovative three year research project that aims to reduce families' exposure to second-hand smoke (SHS) in the home and is designed to be delivered by community health workers.

Second-hand smoke has been linked to child ill-health including chest and ear infections, asthma and cot death. Existing research shows that many parents are not clear about the health effects of SHS on children and health professionals may not be confident in supporting families to change smoking behaviours.

The new intervention that we are testing will compare changes in SHS concentrations in the home before and after mothers receive advice on reducing children’s exposure.  The intervention is designed to provide parents with scientifically measured feedback on the effect their smoking has on air quality within their home. It also provides parents with advice on how to minimise children's exposure to SHS and measures the extent to which they change their behaviour as a result. The particularly novel element is the use of air quality monitors to provide real scientific data to parents.

In addition to the pilot intervention which is being led by the University of Aberdeen, our partner at the University of Edinburgh will lead on qualitative research to understand the issues faced by parents, practitioners and policy makers. REFRESH also includes desk research to measure practitioners’ knowledge and confidence around SHS and map existing smoke-free home interventions in Scotland and England.

A critical literature review will be available later this year that will identify and critique the main findings from the literature on children and SHS exposure. It will examine the cultural and social barriers and motivators associated with smoking restrictions in the home and provide an overview of the effects of SHS exposure on children’s health.

The project team are currently developing a ‘How To’ Guide for practitioners that will provide advice and information on raising the issue of SHS with families. This resource tool for professionals working with families and children will be peer-developed and will be available autumn 2011.

More information on the REFRESH project findings, useful links. hints and tips for creating a smoke-free home and car, and the benefits of creating a smoke-free home and car can be found in the left hand menu.

Contact details

Project Leader:
Dr Rachel O'Donnell: 0131 220 9478, e-mail: Rachel.O'Donnell@ashscotland.org.uk
Senior Researcher:
April Shaw, 0131 225 4725, e-mail: April.Shaw@ashscotland.org.uk