Author: Bert Quintiens
Date: 15-11-2024
Supervisors:
Prof. Joachim Cohen, End-of-Life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel
Prof.Tinne Smets, End-of-Life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel
Prof. Lieve Van den Block, End-of-Life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel
Prof.Luc Deliens, End-of-Life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel
Abstract
This research concerns the development and evaluation of two Compassionate City programmes in Flanders, Belgium.
To inform the development of Compassionate City programmes, I conducted a systematic integrative review to describe the contextual characteristics, development processes, and evaluations of existing Compassionate Cities and Communities around the world.
Next, to describe attitudes and experiences of citizens in the general population regarding serious illness, dying, caregiving, and providing support, I conducted a questionnaire survey in a representative sample of the general population in four municipalities and described the discomfort people feel towards the suffering and dying of others and their willingness to support their neighbours practically or emotionally.
Finally, guided by a study protocol allowing a flexible and adaptive evaluation in support of development, I supported the development of Compassionate City programmes in two municipalities (Bruges and Herzele) and evaluated their development process.
