Evaluation of the training and support received by facilitators of a cancer education and support programme in New Zealand

Abstract

This study evaluates the training and support provided for facilitators who deliver the Living Well programme. This education and support programme, offered by the Cancer Society of New Zealand since 1991, aims to demystify cancer and its treatments, and develop self-efficacy of cancer patients and their supporters. A purposeful sample of 17 facilitators from five regions across New Zealand participated in semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data on demographics, qualifications and history with the programme were subjected to a frequency analysis. A thematic content analysis was conducted on qualitative data regarding the experiences of the facilitators with the training programme and the level and quality of subsequent support. Facilitators (aged 35-65, 16 of whom were women), came from a variety of socio-economic and educational backgrounds with a significant number having health-related roles and qualifications. Facilitator training was seen as relevant, thorough, effective and good preparation for the demands of the role. The pairing of more experienced staff and volunteers to co-facilitate was a particularly successful aspect of the programme. The main drawbacks were limited access to support, lack of supervision and a perceived lack of appreciation from the organisation for the volunteer facilitators.

A pathway to empowerment: evaluating a cancer education and support programme in New Zealand

“…The programme facilitators in the previous study (Jasperse et al . ) as well as participants in the current study have identified the need for better promotion of the LWCEP to cancer patients. Both these studies indicated that the programme is not well known outside those who deliver it or have taken part in it.…”

“…Our previous evaluation of the LWCEP has shown that facilitators of the programme have the necessary background and training to fulfil their role (Jasperse et al . ). Both the CSNZ and the NZ healthcare system must work together to provide adequate support to cancer patients and their families.…”

“…We therefore initiated a formal, independent, multiphase evaluation of the programme in 2010. The first phase assessed whether or not the training and ongoing support of facilitators of the LWCEP was adequate and identified areas for further development (Jasperse et al 2012). The current study describes the findings of the second phase of the evaluation which assesses whether or not the LWCEP, meets the needs of its clients as expressed in its stated aims.…”

Developing a structured education reminiscence‐based programme for staff in long‐stay care facilities in Ireland

“…) and living well with cancer (Jasperse et al . ). Moreover, SEPs are not only delivered to clients but have been used to prepare staff to deliver educational programmes designed to improve health outcomes for patients (e.g.…”

“…, Jasperse et al . ). The SERPS falls into the latter category as it was developed to prepare nurses and healthcare assistants to use reminiscence when caring for people with dementia.…”