Abstract

Background: Macmillan Cancer Support has funded a local intervention whereby carers of people affected by cancer and other long-term conditions at end-of-life are offered a bespoke package of support.
Aim: 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.
Design: Qualitative study utilising individual interviews with informal carers (n=10). 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.
Conclusions: The intervention was successful within a social care setting. It is recommended that further evaluation be conducted once the service has become more fully established.