Increasing Hope and Connection for People with Eating Disorders
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A Pilot of a Co-Produced Intervention to Increase Hope and Connection for People with Eating Disorders
IRAS ID
305026
Contact name
Helen Startup
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
SUSSEX PARTNERSHIP NHS FOUNDATION TRUST
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 11 months, 31 days
Research summary
Background:
Eating disorders (including Anorexia, Bulimia and Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (EDNOS)) are strongly associated with shame, isolation, and poor occupational functioning; this results in a ‘shrinking’ where people with eating disorders’ lives are taken up with managing their illness. Although there is an emerging evidence base on the importance of peer support in recovery from eating disorders, little research exists on how best to facilitate this, and whether this can be carried out remotely.
Methods/Design:
Methods: A remotely-delivered intervention will be co-produced with the lived experience advisory panel for the SPIRED research clinic (Sussex Partnership Innovation and Research in Eating Disorders). This will include: a postcard writing project, virtual chats and a podcast, connected through a central ‘hub’ website.
The intervention will be evaluated using online questionnaires delivered through a link on the website (through the ‘Qualtrics’ online platform), and follow-up interviews.
Participants: Research participants will be anyone who has either accessed the intervention, or has been involved in delivery.
Analysis: Questionnaires will be analysed using descriptive statistics. A framework analysis methodology will be used to analyse the qualitative data. Researchers will initially familiarise themselves with the data, and then will collaboratively construct a framework for analysis. All transcripts will be double-coded (with at least one service user researcher coding transcripts) into this framework, with overarching themes being discussed within the research team.
Discussion/Dissemination:
Results be used to adapt the intervention, and apply for further (NIHR) funding to evaluate this project within a feasibility study.
Following publication, members of the research team will engage in dissemination activities including social media, engagement with TV/Radio/Print media and conferences/talks.
REC name
Wales REC 3
REC reference
21/WA/0394
Date of REC Opinion
1 Feb 2022
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion