The PIECES project continues to explore how the Primary Cancer Prevention – Implementation Toolkit (PCP-IT) supports real-world implementation across Europe. The toolkit is currently being tested by over 20 teams across eight European countries, helping researchers understand how effectively it supports implementers in real-world settings.
During monitoring, it was observed that PCP-IT implementers sometimes face challenges when using the toolkit. In response, PIECES introduced a set of practical strategies designed to keep local teams engaged and motivated throughout the implementation of a cancer prevention programme with the support of the toolkit, helping them stay motivated even when the work is challenging.
Some strategies focus on reconnecting the toolkit to real-world challenges, reducing workload, and establishing supportive routines to ensure implementation remains on track. Simple practices, such as celebrating minor achievements, integrating tasks into existing meetings, and requesting “the next small step” from teams, contribute to enhancing progress visibility and attainable goals.
A key objective is to cultivate a sense of ownership. Teams are encouraged to set their own priorities, reflect on progress through guided questions, and track achievements via short visual summaries. These strategies also reduce practical burdens by breaking tasks into manageable steps, offering brief “toolkit moments”, and providing light reminders or micro-demos when needed.
The guidance includes a dedicated section for teams experiencing low motivation or stalled progress. It is recommended that leaders acknowledge slow progress, adjust expectations accordingly, and adopt a more partnership-focused approach.
The overarching objective of these strategies is to assist all participating teams, irrespective of their pace, in establishing sustainable routines, sustaining their progress, and maintaining a connection to the purpose of their work.