Peer support – head and neck cancer
This study is exploring ways to improve support for individuals diagnosed with head and neck cancer. Many people with this cancer face challenges like anxiety, depression, and difficulties with eating or speaking, which can make them feel alone. While professional help exists, some people prefer other types of support. This study focuses on developing a 'peer support' service, where people who have had head and neck cancer can offer understanding, advice, and practical help to others going through similar experiences. Researchers will speak with patients, their families, and healthcare professionals to gather different viewpoints and design an effective peer support service for the future.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Dealing with head and neck cancer can be really tough. Not only can it affect your physical health, but it can also lead to feelings of anxiety or sadness, and challenges with things like eating, speaking, or even your appearance. These difficulties can make people feel very isolated.
This study is looking into a new way to help: peer support. This is where people who have gone through similar health experiences offer support to others. We know this kind of support has been really helpful for people with other types of cancer. It can make a big difference to someone's mental well-being and help them feel less alone. However, we don't yet know the best way to set up these services specifically for people with head and neck cancer.
That's why this research is so important. We want to hear from many different people – patients, their families, and the healthcare staff who look after them. By listening to everyone's experiences and ideas, we hope to design a peer support service that truly meets the needs of people with head and neck cancer. While you won't get direct help from the study, your input could help many others in the future.
Key takeaways
- This study aims to create better support for people with head and neck cancer.
- It focuses on 'peer support' – people with similar experiences helping each other.
- Researchers will gather ideas from patients, carers, and healthcare staff.
- Participation involves sharing your experiences in interviews or workshops.
- Your input could help shape future support services, benefiting others.
- There are no direct benefits or serious risks to participating.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for a few different groups of people to share their experiences. You might be able to take part if you are an adult (18 years or older) and currently or previously had head and neck cancer, and your doctors say you are stable enough to take part. You'll also need to be able to understand and speak English well enough for interviews or workshops.
If you are a family member or carer who has supported someone with head and neck cancer and are 18 or older, you might also be able to join. Again, you'll need to be able to communicate in English.
Finally, if you are a healthcare professional working with head and neck cancer patients and are 18 or older, your insights are also valuable for this study.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Have you had head and neck cancer and are stable, or have you cared for someone with it?
- Are you a healthcare professional working with head and neck cancer patients?
- Can you understand and speak English well enough for discussions?
- Are you willing to share your experiences and ideas?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, what you'll do depends on who you are. If you are a patient or a carer, you might be asked to take part in an interview where you can share your experiences, thoughts, and ideas about peer support. If you are a healthcare professional, your interview will focus on your views and knowledge about peer support.
Later on, some participants (patients, carers, and professionals) will be invited to join a series of three workshops. These workshops will bring together all the ideas from the interviews to help design the best possible peer support service. This study will run from October 2025 to September 2026, and your involvement would be during this time. There are no medications or special visits involved, just discussions.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (2)
- Mersey Care NHS Trust at Aintree HospitalCity onlyLiverpool, England
- University of LiverpoolApproximateLiverpool, England
Common questions
What is peer support?
Peer support is when people who have similar health experiences help and support each other. For example, someone who has had head and neck cancer can offer understanding and advice to another person going through it.
Will I get help for my cancer if I join this study?
This study is about designing a new support service for the future, not about providing direct medical treatment or support to participants right now. Your input will help others.
How long will I need to be involved?
Your involvement might be an interview, which is a one-off discussion, or you might also be invited to a series of three workshops. The study itself runs for about a year, but your personal time commitment will depend on which parts you join.
Who is paying for this research?
The study is being paid for by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) in the UK, which is a government-funded organisation.
What if I get upset during an interview?
The researchers are aware this might happen. If you find yourself getting upset, they can provide information about support services that can help you.
How to find out more
Peter Fisher
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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