Walk and Talk: Connecting People With Psoriasis
This study, called 'Walk and Talk: Connecting People With Psoriasis,' explores how best to set up supportive walking groups for people living with psoriasis. Psoriasis can sometimes lead to feeling isolated and less active, which can affect overall health. These groups aim to help people feel more connected, get more active, and offer peer support. Researchers want to find out if these 'Walk and Talk' groups are helpful, who joins them, and what activities work best. They will also look at how much physical activity people do, their social connections, and their general wellbeing. The goal is to see if a bigger study should be done and how to make these groups available across the UK.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Living with psoriasis can sometimes be tough, not just because of the skin condition itself, but also because it might make some people feel isolated or less active than others. We know that feeling lonely can have a big impact on your health, similar to other health risks. That's why activities like group walking are becoming more popular to help people with long-term conditions feel better, get more exercise, and connect with others who understand what they're going through.
This study, called 'Walk and Talk: Connecting People With Psoriasis,' is looking into whether walking groups can specifically help people with psoriasis. We want to see if these groups can help you feel more connected to others, increase your physical activity, and provide a chance to chat with people who have similar experiences. We also want to understand what kind of activities in these groups would be most helpful and appealing to people with psoriasis, as some might find it hard to socialise or be active.
Because this is a new idea for people with psoriasis, we're starting with a smaller, 'exploratory' study. This will help us figure out the best way to run these groups, understand who is interested in joining, and see what benefits might come from them. It will also help us plan for a potentially larger study in the future to make sure these tailored 'Walk and Talk' groups could eventually be offered more widely across the country, helping many more people.
Key takeaways
- Exploring walking groups for people with psoriasis.
- Aims to improve social connections, activity, and wellbeing.
- Specifically tailored for people with psoriasis.
- Initial 'exploratory' study to shape future widespread groups.
- Participation will help understand best group format for others.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be at least 18 years old and have a diagnosis of psoriasis. You should also be currently receiving care for your psoriasis at a specialist skin clinic. We're looking for people who can walk at a slow pace for about 30 minutes (which is roughly 2 kilometres). If you use a wheelchair, you're also welcome to take part, but you'll need to bring someone with you who can help push your wheelchair, especially up any hills.
There are a few reasons why someone might not be able to join. For example, if you find it difficult to understand the study information or sign consent forms, or if you don't understand English well enough to complete the study questionnaires, you wouldn't be able to participate. This is because many parts of the study rely on you understanding written and spoken information in English. Also, if you can't walk for 30 minutes at a slow pace and don't have someone to push your wheelchair if needed, you wouldn't be eligible. This study is only for adults, so children cannot take part.
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?
- Do you have a diagnosis of psoriasis?
- Are you currently receiving specialised care for your psoriasis?
- Can you walk slowly for at least 30 minutes, or do you use a wheelchair and have someone who can help push you?
- Do you understand information and questionnaires in English?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, your journey will begin after we send you some information about the study. If you don't 'opt out' (meaning you don't tell us you don't want to be contacted), a member of our research team will get in touch. They will try to reach you up to three times. If we don't hear back, we won't contact you again.
If you do want to hear more, you'll be invited to meet with a researcher. This is your chance to ask any questions you have and make sure you understand everything involved. If you're happy to proceed and meet the study requirements, you'll be asked to give your consent to participate. This study will involve joining 'Walk and Talk' sessions. We'll be measuring things like your social connections (how lonely you feel), your physical activity levels, your risk for heart problems, your general mood, your quality of life, and how severe your psoriasis is. The exact number of sessions and the total duration aren't fully detailed here, but the aim is an 'exploratory study' to help plan a larger one, so it won't be a very long-term commitment. Remember, your decision to join or not will not affect your current or future medical care in any way.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- The Royal FreeVerified postcodeLondon, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What is a 'Walk and Talk' group?
It's a walking group designed for people with psoriasis to get some physical activity and connect with others who understand their condition.
Who can join these groups?
Adults (18+) with psoriasis who are able to walk slowly for 30 minutes, or wheelchair users with someone to help them, and are currently seeing a specialist for their psoriasis.
Will I have to pay to join?
No, participating in this study and the 'Walk and Talk' groups is free of charge.
What if I decide I don't want to take part after initially expressing interest?
That's perfectly fine. Your decision to participate or not will not affect your medical care in any way, and you can withdraw at any time.
What does 'opt-out' recruitment mean?
It means you'll receive information about the study, and if you don't want to be contacted further, you need to let us know. If you don't express that you want to 'opt-out', we'll get in touch to discuss it with you.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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