Beliefs, barriers and control: a model for research into social exclusion

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to introduce an innovative qualitative methodology, the beliefs, barriers and control (BBaC) model. The BBaC model facilitates the understanding of how perceptions are formed through actors' interactions with their environments and each other, enabling targeted solutions for social and organisational questions. Design/methodology/approach – The paper draws on a case study of a sports‐based intervention that addresses the physical activity levels of at risk youths in Stoke‐on‐Trent. It is an account of how the BBaC model was used to provide an understanding of barriers to participation in sport and active recreation amongst the target population. The study involved youth workers utilising the BBaC approach in focus groups with young people (YP) and staff. Moreover, the model was used in this case study in conjunction with the European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM) framework, which demonstrated how this qualitative methodology can be used with “harder” focused management tools to produce strategies for social and organisational improvement. Findings – The BBaC model was used to collect rich qualitative data from the target YP. This was translated into action points using the EFQM model which were used in strategic and policy decision making; delivering improved results for the target YP. Originality/value – The paper introduces an innovative and original methodology, the BBaC model, and demonstrates how it can be used to deliver strategies that have positive impacts.