LD Diabetes Distress Study V1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
How do adults with learning disabilities and type 2 diabetes experience diabetes distress?
IRAS ID
355662
Contact name
Elizabeth Jenkinson
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of the West of England
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Adults with learning disabilities are known to experience higher rates of diabetes than the wider population, and are more likely to experience complications. However, relatively little is known about their experience of the distress associated with diabetes in the wider population. Whilst prior qualitative studies have examined diabetes in the learning-disabled population more broadly, none have yet focused around diabetes distress exclusively.
This study will examine the distress associated with coping with type 2 diabetes in adults with learning disabilities. It will use a qualitative methodology involving semi-structured interviews with adults with learning disabilities and diabetes. They will be supported in these interviews by a nominated carer, and the use of a “talking mat” visual card set, which they will arrange with the researcher to help them track their answers. This is a technique that has been shown to support the understanding and engagement of this population group.
Other adaptations to support engagement will include splitting interviews across two sessions, and the use of a layered approach for easy-read patient information materials. Interviews will take place in the participant’s homes.Participants will be invited to discuss different emotions they experience around diabetes and the sources of these. Cards facilitating the discussion will be informed by previous research and PPI. It is anticipated that between 12 and 18 adults with learning disabilities will be interviewed.
Directed content analysis will be used to analyse the interview transcript and talking mat “arrays”. Previous research into diabetes distress in adults without learning disabilities will inform the initial data codes through a method called deductive category application.
REC name
HSC REC B
REC reference
25/NI/0143
Date of REC Opinion
18 Dec 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion