People: health & wellbeing
At the Health and Society Group, we take a holistic approach to human health, wellbeing, and lifestyle practices. The "People" aspect of our research examines the interpersonal factors that influence health, such as social norms, networks, and experiences of social marginalisation.
By studying how people's environments, relationships, and lifestyles impact their health, we aim to advance knowledge and create positive changes for communities. Our work contributes to healthier, more equitable societies by focusing on the social determinants of health and promoting sustainable practices.
Through our research, we help individuals and groups lead healthier lives and empower communities to foster change and improve overall wellbeing. Join us in exploring how we can work together to enhance the health of people everywhere.
Our projects
Wijk in Beweging
Wij(k) in Beweging: wijkgerichte transitie naar meer sociale gelijkheid door sport en bewegen
Sports and physical activity can improve physical, mental and social wellbeing, but not everyone has the same opportunities to participate. Poverty, stress and a lack of supportive environments can create barriers, particularly in disadvantaged neighbourhoods. Wij(k) in Beweging works with residents and local organisations to understand these barriers and develop solutions together. Through participatory action research in three neighbourhoods - Slotermeer in Amsterdam, De Pierik in Zwolle and Didam in Montferland - the project explores how communities can make sports and physical activity more accessible and help create healthier and happier neighbourhoods. Contact person: Kirsten Verkooijen.
Wijk in Beweging
Wij(k) in Beweging: wijkgerichte transitie naar meer sociale gelijkheid door sport en bewegen
Sports and physical activity can improve physical, mental and social wellbeing, but not everyone has the same opportunities to participate. Poverty, stress and a lack of supportive environments can create barriers, particularly in disadvantaged neighbourhoods. Wij(k) in Beweging works with residents and local organisations to understand these barriers and develop solutions together. Through participatory action research in three neighbourhoods - Slotermeer in Amsterdam, De Pierik in Zwolle and Didam in Montferland - the project explores how communities can make sports and physical activity more accessible and help create healthier and happier neighbourhoods. Contact person: Kirsten Verkooijen.
LIFTS
Healthy Lifestyle for Low Literate Teenagers (LIFTS)
Practical education (PrO, Praktijkonderwijs) students can face additional challenges in making healthy choices than their peers in other types of secondary education in the Netherlands. LIFTS aims to support a healthier future by developing health technology that fits their needs, experiences and everyday lives. The project brings together PrO schools, students, teachers, caregivers, societal partners and researchers. Through participatory research, they work together to develop and test innovative approaches that can help young people make healthier choices. Contact person: Daniella van Uden.
Maatschappelijk Meedoen Budget (MMB)
Wageningen Versterkt Bestaanszekerheid: samen leren en evalueren
People on lower incomes often experience poorer health and face difficulties accessing the support they are entitled to. In Wageningen, a new policy introduced in 2025 replaces several financial support schemes with a single allowance: the Social Participation Budget (Maatschappelijk Meedoen Budget). This project follows and evaluates the new policy and the community support network being developed around it. Working with residents, local organisations and the Netherlands Institute for Social Research (SCP), researchers investigate whether the new approach improves financial security, social participation and health, while sharing lessons to help improve policies in Wageningen and beyond. Contact: Roos van Lammeren.
PRISTA app
Pregnancy and the first year after birth are important periods for developing healthy eating habits, with benefits for both mothers and children. Yet many women receive limited personalised support with nutrition during this time. The PRISTA project aims to improve this by further developing and testing a mobile app that provides tailored nutritional advice and guidance during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Building on earlier research in the Foodvalley region, the project will refine, implement and evaluate the app to support healthier dietary choices and better health outcomes for mothers and young children. Contact: Annemarie Wagemakers.
Research themes
People: Understanding Human Health and Wellbeing
The "People" aspect of our research examines the interpersonal factors that influence health, such as social norms, networks, and experiences of social marginalisation.
Places: Exploring the Impact of Environments on Health
Our research on "Places" focuses on how the built, social, and natural environments influence health and wellbeing.
Policies: Advocating for Health Justice and Equity
The "Policies" aspect of our work involves investigating governance practices and policies that impact health justice, equity, and population health.
Planet: Enhancing Human Health in a Changing World
The "Planet" section of our work broadens our understanding of health beyond human beings.
Health and Society
Health and Society, led by Spencer Moore, is embedded in widening circles of engagement with the major challenges facing human and planetary health today.
Follow us on social media
Stay up-to-date and learn more through our social channel.