Introduction

• Thank you for attending.
• Introductions of everyone involved in group: Research Associate (RA), other research team members and their roles.
• Introductions of participants – acknowledge that some participants may know each other in a personal or professional role. If this is the case, reinforce confidentiality issues and clarify that they are comfortable with continued participation.
• Explain purpose of project and this focus group:
  • We are looking for feedback from people involved in treatments for eating, drinking and swallowing for young children with neurodisability that can be delivered by parents at home: parents, professionals and young people.
  • We want to know about their experiences of treatments for EDSD for young children with neurodisability, the practicalities – good and bad.
  • No right or wrong answers – not a test of knowledge.
• Ground rules of group – everyone’s contribution is valued; confidentiality.
• Consent – written – because we want to be reviewing content and analysing data.
• Explain group discussion audio-recorded to make sure that it is documented accurately, but details will be confidential.
• If participants have any questions about care of a relative or client the RA the participant will be listened to, answered briefly and then offered the opportunity to discuss with the team afterward. We will try to signpost them to someone locally who can help.
• Questions or concerns?

Ask participants to read and sign consent forms