Health 4 U

Health 4 U is an innovative research project which is developing new and exciting ways of promoting health among African communities in Nottingham. In a time where the majority of people own a mobile phone, the Health 4 U project aims to develop a text messaging service which will provide information and advice on a range of important health issues, including HIV. This project has received ethical approval from the University of Nottingham, and is funded by NHS Nottingham City (Public Health Directorate).

Since Oct 2010, our National Umbrella the African Health Policy Network (AHPN) has taken a bold decision broadened its strategic priorities to include other health conditions that disproportionately affect Africans in the UK because of existing structural and socioeconomic factors.

About Health 4 U

Health 4 U is a project that aims to develop and test a health promotion initiative delivered via mobile phones. The project aims to promote health and increase uptake of HIV testing amongst African communities in Nottingham. This new initiative is being developed because research shows that African communities in the UK can be at risk of HIV and other health conditions. In particular, there is a low uptake of testing and screening for health conditions. The consequence is that individuals who may benefit from early treatment and support, may not get the help they need at the right time.

This project hopes to develop a different approach to promoting health and well-being. We recognise that health messages need to feel relevant and need to address people’s everyday concerns. In addition, there is a need to develop health interventions that can be accessed anytime, anywhere to fit in with busy lives. For this reason, we wish to explore whether or not health messages delivered via mobile phone text messages might be a useful addition to other health promotion activities

Taking Part

Focus Groups
Focus group discussions held with members of the African community in Nottingham. Discussions used to identify key attitudes concerning the use of mobile phones to promote health and HIV testing. Findings shared, and used to inform development and piloting of text message intervention to promote HIV testing. Click here to view Q&A’s about focus groups.

Text Message Intervention
Recruitment of participants to receive the text messaging intervention. On signing up to take part in the study, participants complete questionnaire. Participants receive a series of text messages.

Participant Feedback
Participants complete follow-up questionnaire at end of intervention.

Findings of Study Shared
Findings shared at local events and with key partners.

Useful Links

Further information about HIV services in Nottingham City:

AISD
At the AISD, you can call or text 07572 694 343, and someone will call you back to arrange a time to discuss your questions or book a test.

THT (Nottingham branch)
At THT Nottingham, you can make appointments to talk with a counsellor or come for a rapid HIV test at a time that is convenient for you.

City Hospital, GU Medicine Clinic
Here, you can make appointments to see a health advisor to discuss any questions or to have an HIV test.

The Health Shop
At The Health Shop, you can access free and confidential HIV and STD testing, clinical psychology and complimentary therapy services.

Nottinghamshire County Council
Nottinghamshire County Council has specialist workers who can offer advice and support for people diagnosed with HIV and AIDS and their carers.

Further information about national HIV services:

THT Direct
A helpline for people who need to talk. For information, advice and someone to talk to about HIV, you can call THT Direct between 10am and 8pm from Monday to Friday. It is a FREE number. Call: 0808 802 1221.

Further information about any other health related matters:

NHS Choices
NHS Choices is the online ‘front door’ to the NHS. It is the country’s biggest health website and gives all the information you need to make choices about your health.

Change 4 Life
A great programme to support you and your family to improve your health.

Find GP Services
If you have concerns about any other health related matters, we would suggest you talk to your local GP.

Further Information

If you still have questions after reading the Taking Part page, please contact:
Mr Amdani Juma
African Institute for Social Development
e: amdani@africaninstitute.org.uk
t: +44 (0)7572 604 343

If you still have questions after reading the About page, please contact:
Katie Turner
Research Associate on the Health 4 U Project
e: katie.turner@nottingham.ac.uk

About Us

AISD is a volunteer, African-led, community organisation that enables Africans to access health services..

Contact Us

T3, Technology Wing, Lenton Business Centre, Lenton Boulevard, Nottingham, NG7 2BY

Phone: +44(0)1158540516

Mobile: +44(0)7834459076

Email: admin@africaninstitute.org.uk