This  project, supported by Insight’s Strategic Research Fund, aims to use data analytics to boost health and wellbeing outcomes in Dublin’s North East Inner City.

Dublin’s North East Inner City (NEIC) is a community characterised by diverse socio-economic challenges that impact health, wellbeing, education and gender equality. The area has been the focus of numerous governmental and non-governmental interventions aimed at ameliorating these issues. One such approach has involved the use of sport, physical activity and wellbeing initiatives through the NEIC Sports and Wellbeing Programme.

While this initiative has no doubt had a positive impact on the locality, persistent disparities remain, necessitating innovative approaches that leverage modern technological advancements and interdisciplinary collaborations. This project, led by Dr Stephen Behan of Insight at Dublin City University, proposes a data-informed strategy to enhance the efficacy of the sport and wellbeing programme in the NEIC, addressing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being).

The relationship between socio-economic status and health outcomes is well- documented. Research has shown that residents in designated low socio-economic status areas could face higher rates of chronic diseases, mental health issues and reduced access to healthcare services compared to more affluent areas. Sports and wellbeing programmes are known to mitigate some of these health disparities by promoting physical activity, mental health and community cohesion.

However, the impact of these programmes can be significantly enhanced through data analytics. By systematically collecting and analysing health related data, it is possible to identify trends, gaps and opportunities for targeted interventions.

This project aims to use data to optimise the delivery and effectiveness of health programs, thus improving overall community health outcomes. The integration of data analytics into community health, education, and gender equality programs represents a novel approach that combines scientific rigour with practical application. By leveraging the expertise of the Insight Research Ireland Centre for Data Analytics and DCU’s School of Health and Human Performance, this project will employ advanced data collection, analysis and visualisation techniques to inform and enhance programme design and implementation.