Mixed methods study to assess family members' unmet needs Version 1.0
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Mixed methods study to assess family members unmet needs in an oncology setting (SALUTE)
IRAS ID
331660
Contact name
Sing Yu Moorcraft
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Swansea Bay University Health Board
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 11 months, 31 days
Research summary
When someone is diagnosed with cancer, it can be a worrying and stressful time for patients and for their family members. Family members may provide practical and emotional support to patients, and may take on a caregiver role. Family members may want more information or advice, or may benefit from emotional support themselves. We want to identify any gaps in the current support we provide to family members so that we can improve services in the future.
Oncology patients in Singleton Hospital, Swansea will be asked by their oncology team to identify one or more family members to participate in the study. If a family member agrees to participate in the study, the research team will call them to complete a telephone questionnaire. The questionnaire should take less than 20 minutes and asks them some general questions (e.g. age, gender) and some questions about how they are feeling, what support services they find helpful and what additional support they feel would be beneficial. Data regarding participating patients’ cancer diagnosis and treatment will be collected from their medical notes.
After the questionnaire data has been analysed, optional follow-up telephone interviews will be conducted with some family members to explore any issues identified in greater detail.
Patients and family members will be recruited during a 6 month recruitment period and all responses will be anonymised.
This is a pilot study which will not change the current support provided to family members, although they may be directed to existing services if appropriate. Patients’ treatment will not be changed in any way. Any study costs are funded by Swansea Bay University Health Board.
REC name
Wales REC 6
REC reference
23/WA/0313
Date of REC Opinion
21 Nov 2023
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion