A linked-evidence synthesis evaluating interventions aiming to improve the mental health of children with long-term conditions: Reflections on stakeholder consultation

ID: 

19233

Session: 

Long oral session 15: Consumer involvement in research

Date: 

Thursday 14 September 2017 - 16:00 to 17:30

Location: 

Meeting Room 1.41

All authors in correct order:

Nunns M1, Shaw L1, Moore D1, Rogers M1, Garside R1, Ukoumunne O1, Shafran R2, Heyman I3, Ford T1, Dickens C1, Walker E3, Titman P3, Anderson R1, Viner R2, Bennett S2, Logan S1, Thompson Coon J1
1 University of Exeter, United Kingdom
2 University College London, United Kingdom
3 Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, United Kingdom
Presenting author and contact person

Presenting author:

Michael Nunns

Contact person:

Michael Nunns
Darren Moore
Abstract text
Background: We have recently completed a project which involved two linked systematic reviews and an overarching synthesis evaluating the effectiveness and experiences of mental-health interventions for children and young people (CYP) with long-term physical conditions (LTC). We engaged in stakeholder consultation throughout the review to incorporate the insights of a range of practice-facing evidence end-users, with the aim of enriching the review and increasing its applicability, transferability and visibility.

Aim: To describe the process of involvement of evidence end-users within a linked-evidence synthesis project, share the outcomes, and reflect on lessons learned and value added.

Approach: Our review team consulted with academic topic experts, clinicians, charities, CYP with experience of LTCs and mental ill health and their parents. Consultation occurred throughout the project and included a 6-week dedicated consultation period during the final synthesis stages. We aimed to gather input on search terms and definitions; approaches to data extraction and synthesis; interpretation of findings; dissemination channels; plain language summaries; and, implications for clinical practice.

Impact on project: Throughout the review, consultation influenced the team’s approach. This influence ranged from planning search terms and inclusion/exclusion criteria, through the use of language around mental and physical health, to helping validate emerging findings from the overarching synthesis. We also benefitted from an array of dissemination channels and opportunities for collaboration and knowledge transfer. We have identified a number of challenges in communicating research progress to different audiences and ensuring that planned activities are valuable to all parties.

Conclusions: Consultation with a range of stakeholders was valuable to the review team, and impacted on every stage of the review. In particular, we valued consultation in aiding the interpretation of evidence and facilitating dissemination amongst key target audiences.