A mixed-methods intervention and training development study for the Work And Vocational advicE (WAVE) trial (Clinical Trials: NCT04543097)

Purpose : In the UK, people taking sickness absence have limited access to early vocational advice from independent practitioners, despite this being recommended as part of clinical care. This paper describes the development and content of a vocational advice intervention and associated training and mentoring programme. Methods : This was a mixed-methods intervention and training development study commencing with a review of current best practice. Expert advisory and patient group meetings were conducted to review components of the draft logic model; content and framework for delivery of the vocational advice intervention, and to inform the development and content of the training and mentoring programme for those delivering the intervention. Results : From the literature, and based on behaviour change theories, the derived logic model included treatment targets of: health; cognitions; behaviours; emotions; and occupational targets. Intervention processes included: problem-solving; goal setting; psychoeducation; reassurance; graded activity; RTW planning; and work modification. The framework for delivery was by telephone using case-management and stepped care. The logic model, treatment targets, intervention processes and delivery framework were discussed and approved by patients and expert advisors. The training programme was aligned to the content of the intervention and designed to be delivered online over 3 days with monthly online group mentoring. Conclusions : A vocational advice intervention and associated training programme were developed and delivered for the WAVE trial, to be used with adults in receipt of a fit note for any health condition in primary care. Future work will evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention. Registration Clinical Trials: NCT04543097