The needs of carers of men with prostate cancer and barriers and enablers to meeting them: a qualitative study in England

The aim of this study was to explore the needs of carers of men with prostate cancer and to identify barriers and enablers to meeting these needs. Carers were recruited to focus groups or interviews. These were recorded, transcribed and analysed by two researchers using Nvivo QSR6 and the Framework approach to index, chart and analyse data to identify emergent themes of the needs of carers, and barriers and enablers to meeting these needs. Fifteen carers took part in focus groups and 19 were interviewed. Carers' needs varied and were often unmet because of barriers to existing services. Carers needed: information; emotional support; practical support; effective medical care for the patient. Barriers to carers meeting their needs included: lack of awareness of sources of help; lack of understanding of information; reluctance to ask for help; prioritising the patient's needs. Enablers included better signposting to information and sources of support, and assessment of their needs. Interventions to address these needs should be developed taking account of the barriers and enablers identified here, and the experience of reported interventions for carers of other cancer patients. Carers should be offered an assessment to establish their needs and directed to appropriate sources of help.