Research opportunity for carers of people with a learning disability

Researchers at the University of Warwick are carrying out a study to look at how doctors and nurses have conversations with people about treatments they might receive if they become seriously unwell. This is called the ReSPECT process. The researchers would like to talk to carers of people with a learning disability who are willing to join a group discussion about the ReSPECT process. You don’t need to have previous experience of or know anything about ReSPECT to join.

What is ReSPECT?

ReSPECT stands for Recommended Summary Plan for Emergency Care and Treatment (ReSPECT). This records which treatments doctors and nurses should consider for a person in a future emergency situation if the person becomes seriously unwell and is unable to communicate at the time. The plan is made with the person either during a conversation with their GP or hospital doctor, or sometimes when a person is admitted to hospital. If a person isn’t able to talk to their doctor or nurse about the plan, it is discussed with the person’s family, carer or someone close to them. Anyone can have a ReSPECT conversation with their doctor but it is more likely to happen if the person already has a medical condition or there is a chance that they might become seriously unwell.

We would like to talk to carers of people with a learning disability about whether and how these conversations should take place, and the benefits and challenges of the ReSPECT process.

The group discussion will happen on Zoom or another videoconferencing platform arranged by the study team so you don’t have to travel to get there.

It will last about one hour. You will get a £20 voucher.

If you are interested in taking part, or you would like more information about the study, please contact the study team.

Tel: 02476 573988

email: respectpc@warwick.ac.uk