A PROPOSED MODEL FOR EFFECTIVE PATIENT-LED

CHRONIC PAIN SUPPORT GROUPS

Project Co-ordinator: Jill Rowley

PROJECT AIMS AND OBJECTIVES The ultimate aim of this project is to propose a

model for effective Patient-led Chronic Pain Support Groups, which may be replicated in the wider context of the setting of patient-led support groups around the UK.

The objectives are: to analyse key aspects of group process and

organisation of the Chronic Pain Support Groups in east Kent formed between 2011 & 2012

to develop and apply a self-evaluative and supportive approach that encourages self-sustainability

to incorporate a practical evaluation tool and generic resources into an information and guidance manual for new or existing support groups

WHY? Support groups may help to bridge ‘a gap in

the available services by providing support for the difficult task of living with chronic pain’ (Subramaniam et al. 1999).

The KCHT Community Chronic Pain Service recognises the value of this potential ongoing support. The project is the opportunity for the service to explore how it can promote the self-efficacy of existing Chronic Pain Support Groups in east Kent and sustain them whilst also supporting any future efforts to start new support groups.

HOW? Step 1: Support group member

questionnaire. This will aim to evaluate a range of structural and process-based aspects of the groups’ key practices.

Step 2: The results of each group will be then integrated into a reflective/developmental ‘rating grid’ based on a continuum of best practices. This will help evidence the results of the

collective standards of practice of the individual support groups into a self-evaluative tool called the ‘Group Identity Grid’.

Step 3:Any developmental changes will be collectively decided for implementation, including the optional co-development of any resources by the group and Project Coordinator such as Terms of Reference, lists of speakers, ground rules etc. as requested by the support groups.

Step 4: The self-evaluation tool and generic resources from the project including those developed & written by the co-ordinator will form the basis of an information & guidance manual.

Chronic Pain

Support Group

Information Manual

THANK YOU FOR LISTENING.ANY QUESTIONS ARE WELCOME!

REFERENCES Subramaniam et al. (1999) The

Development and Impact of a Chronic pain Support Group: A Qualitative and Quantitative study. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management 17 (5) pp376-383.