[Objective] This study aimed to clarify the outcomes of co-production and the role of social workers discussed in social work studies in the United Kingdom. Additionally, this study sought to organize key issues related to the development of co-production research and the systematization of social work practice in Japan.

[Methods] Relevant studies were identified through Web of Science by selecting previous studies from the United Kingdom that focused on social work and co-production. The literature review was then conducted to clarify the outcomes of co-production and the roles of social workers as discussed in each study.

[Results] The outcomes of co-production discussed in the reviewed studies were: knowledge (14 studies), healthcare and social care services (5 studies), and digital storytelling (1 study). The roles of social workers in co-production were discussed in three main areas: (1) collaboration in research and utilization of the knowledge produced in knowledge co-production, (2) facilitation of relationship building between service users and healthcare and social care professionals , and (3) addressing shortcomings during co-production implementation. Items (2) and (3) are related to co-production practices overall.

[Conclusions] This study revealed that although diverse forms of co-production are discussed in social work studies in the United Kingdom, they share a common focus on promoting service user participation. It also demonstrated that social workers play an indispensable role in realizing co-production practices. To advance co-production research related to social work in Japan, the discussions on service co-production should be broadened. In addition, the practices of social workers in building relationships with service users should be clarified through inductive research on those actively engaged in service co-production.

[Objective] Establishing healthy lifestyle habits from an early age is important for long-term health outcomes. However, Aomori Prefecture has a high child obesity rate. This study explored meal provision during extended childcare to clarify the eating habits, lifestyle habits, and health status of young children enrolled in extended childcare in Aomori Prefecture.

[Methods] An anonymous self-administered questionnaire survey was completed by parents of young children enrolled in extended childcare. The study compared the mealtimes, eating habits, lifestyle, and health status of children who were and were not obese that were enrolled in extended childcare.

[Results] Ten percent of the children in the sample were obese. These children were more likely to skip dinner on days when they attended extended childcare(p=0.011). Furthermore, these children were more likely to go to bed later on days they attended extended childcare compared to days when they did not(p=0.016). Children receiving meals during extended childcare were more likely to eat snacks after returning home from extended childcare(p=0.011), were less likely to go to bed before 9 PM(p<0.001), and were less likely to wake up before 7 AM the next day(p=0.015).

[Conclusion] This study showed that the proportion of children who are obese in Aomori prefecture is higher than the national average. This suggests that irregular eating and lifestyle habits associated with attending extended childcare may contribute to obesity.