An observational study of the Stroke Association family support organizer service

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Abstract
Objective: The aim was to investigate the role of Stroke Association family support organizers, in order to decide what outcome measures would be appropriate for evaluating their service. Design: Family support organizers (FSOs) were observed on home and hospital visits by an independent observer. Every two minutes recordings were made of the location, individuals present and activity taking place. Setting: FSOs working in the North-West and Midland regions of Britain. Results: The majority (71%) of visits took place in the patient's home, with both patients and carers (39%). The most frequently occurring activities were enquiry (17%), task-related conversation (14%) and support-related conversations (14%). Comparison of FSOs showed variation in the time dedicated to each activity. Conclusions: FSOs spend more time engaged in practical rather than emotional activities. The role of the FSO is multifaceted. Evaluation of the FSO service needs to measure the patient's mood and functional abilities, the carer's mood and strain, and patients' and carers' knowledge and satisfaction with information and services.