The acceptability and experience of a functional training programme (ReTrain) in community dwelling stroke survivors in South West England: a qualitative study.

This is the author accepted manuscript. The final version is available from BMJ Publishing Group via the DOI in this record.OBJECTIVE: This article reports on the acceptability of the intervention as described by trial participants. DESIGN: A qualitative approach was undertaken. Of the 45 participants recruited into the trial, 23 were randomised to receive ReTrain. Following a sampling strategy, 10 participants undertook 1:1 semi-structured audiorecorded interviews. Transcripts were analysed following a modified Framework Approach. RESULTS: Six themes were developed including exploration of: the physical and psychological impacts of training; the perceived mechanisms of change; the interaction of the group; and approach of the trainer. A further theme considered the reported longer term impact of participation. Overall the results indicated the acceptability of the intervention, but also key areas for potential modification in the definitive trial. These include: a need to consider potential impact on both physical and psychological function; careful consideration of dosing and fatigue and the interpersonal factors that facilitate appropriate level of delivery; the trainer to participant ratio; and enhancing features that support continuation of activity post intervention. CONCLUSION: Overall, this study supports the acceptability of ReTrain and the development of a definitive trial evaluation of this intervention to full.We thank our funders, the Stroke Association TSA 2014-13 and the Peninsula Patient Involvement Group with the ReTrain Stroke Service User Group for their help. The National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care South West Peninsula at the Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust also supported this work but views expressed are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the NHS, the NIHR or the Department of Health