Background
Fatigue is a common and debilitating symptom which is believed to affect over 50% of stroke survivors. However, existing evidence on how to best manage post-stroke fatigue is limited, and many guidelines fail to involve stroke survivors with lived experience in making recommendations to manage it.
Aims
The aim of this feasibility study is to test a codesigned fatigue management intervention using peer support and resources developed in a previous study phase.
Methods
Participants will be paired with a peer supporter, referred to as ‘buddy facilitators’ (at the suggestion of the PPI members); this is a person with lived experience of, or someone with experience of supporting those, with post-stroke fatigue. Peer supporters received peer support training in a previous study phase.
Participants will be asked to meet via video-call with the ‘buddy facilitator’ twice a week for six weeks. They will be provided with the online and workbook resources developed in a previous study phase. During the six weeks, participants will be supported to explore ways of managing their fatigue.
Data will be collected by electronic questionnaire at baseline and at the completion of the six weeks to determine the feasibility of conducting a larger powered trial. Participants and ‘buddies’ will be invited separately to take part in a qualitative interview to explore their experiences.
Results
The study will finish recruiting in July 2024 and results will be available from September 2024.
Conclusion
This feasibility study will enable us to determine whether a larger trial is possible.