Abstract

Objective To develop and test a novel programme to support post-stroke fatigue management for testing in a future clinical trial. Design Staged approach to development and preliminary testing. Phases 1 and 2: co-design groups held to agree programme content and resources. Phase 3: training for facilitators developed and delivered. Phase 4: feasibility of programme delivery tested with questionnaires completed at beginning and end, and feedback interviews conducted. Setting Community, online. Participants Stroke survivors with post-stroke fatigue, carers and healthcare professionals. Intervention Post-stroke fatigue management programme supported by ‘buddies’ with lived or professional experience of managing fatigue. Main measures In phase 4, we examined feasibility of programme delivery (recruitment, retention, engagement and acceptability) and preliminary signals of efficacy. Results In phases 1 and 2 we recruited 23 participants (16 stroke survivors, 2 carers and 5 healthcare professionals) and designed resources. In phase 3, 10 people supported training development: 7 received training to be buddies. In phase 4 we recruited 15 people with fatigue; 13 completed the programme. Of these, 13 completed baseline and 12 follow-up questionnaires. All buddies (7/7) and 12/13 participants were interviewed. Mean number of sessions delivered was 9 (SD 3.24; range 3–13) and ranged from 10 to 60 minutes (mean 28 minutes; SD 10.04). Overall, mean fatigue severity reduced, activity increased, and mood measures improved. Participants and buddies were positive about the programme and believed it was worthwhile. Conclusions The programme was acceptable and feasible, with preliminary evidence of efficacy, but some issues need to be addressed in future trial design.