Supporting carers of people affected by cancer and other long-term conditions at end of life

Background Macmillan Cancer Support has funded an intervention in Lincolnshire whereby carers of people affected by cancer and other long-term conditions at end-of-life are offered a bespoke package of support. The objectives of the study were (1) to explore the experiences of those in receipt of the intervention and (2) to inform the funders of particular strengths and weaknesses of their service. Method 10 in-depth interviews with carers in receipt of the intervention were conducted. Data were analysed using framework analysis. Results The service appeared to be meeting a specific need, in that, it focused specifically on the needs of the carer, something not being met elsewhere. A positive outcome that has arisen from the carers involvement is that they have felt reassured through having background support. All those interviewed reported that the personal attributes and specialist skills of those delivering the service had influenced their satisfaction. Participants also remarked on how they were signposted to a range of useful sources which helped to streamline communication between the carer and other health and social care services. Conclusion The evaluation found this to be a successful intervention within a social care setting. The participants had no overtly negative opinions on the service in its current format and all held it in a high regard. Participants felt that both the content and delivery were excellent. It is recommended that further evaluation be conducted once the service has become more fully established. Acknowledgements We are grateful to Macmillan Cancer Support for funding this research. Additionally, we would like to express our gratitude to the carers who took the time to take part in an interview