Qualitative Experiences of Caregivers of Children with Glue Ear
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A Qualitative Semi-Structured Interview Study Exploring Experiences of Caregivers of Children with Glue Ear in the North-East of England
IRAS ID
365793
Contact name
Jason Powell
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Newcastle University
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 3 months, 29 days
Research summary
This study aims to understand what it is like to care for a child with glue ear (also known as otitis media with effusion). Glue ear happens when thick fluid collects behind the eardrum, making it harder for a child to hear. It is common in young children and often gets better on its own, but in some cases it lasts longer or keeps coming back. This can affect a child’s speech, learning, and social development. Caring for a child with glue ear can therefore be challenging for both families and professionals.
There has been little research looking at the day-to-day experiences of parents, guardians, and professionals who care for children with glue ear. By listening to their stories, this study hopes to identify what kinds of support work well and what could be improved in healthcare and education services across the North-East of England. The goal is to make future care more responsive to the needs of families.
People who look after children with glue ear will be invited to take part in an interview lasting about one hour. There will be two groups:
Around 12 family or guardian caregivers, who are currently caring for or have previously cared for a child with glue ear.
Around 12 professional caregivers, who have worked with children affected by glue ear.Data will be analysed and used to guide recommendations and suggestions.
The participant journey will involve being identified through clinics, patient groups, and community support services (for family caregivers) or staff networks (for professional caregivers), then receiving a participant information summary and a consent to contact form which can be returned. Following this, participants will be contacted and consented for interview.
REC name
West of Scotland REC 5
REC reference
26/WS/0067
Date of REC Opinion
13 May 2026
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion