The Respire+ resources are all free to access and aim to improve the patient experience by helping individuals to prepare for radiotherapy.
They were created through the Respire project, which is run by a team of researchers led by Sheffield Hallam University Professor Heidi Probst alongside, audio-visual specialist technicians, therapeutic radiographers, and patients from Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, and Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.
The funding enabled the Respire team to produce a series of bite-sized videos and podcasts, which contain everything from skin care guidelines to advice from fellow patients with a breast cancer diagnosis.
The Respire team also created downloadable self-monitoring tools, which help patients to keep track of the potential side effects of radiotherapy – such as skin reactions and lymphoedema (swelling from fluid build-up) of the breast or trunk.
The Respire+ resources were co-designed in collaboration with people who had previously gone through radiotherapy following a breast cancer diagnosis. This approach ensures that they are as inclusive as possible and tailored to patient needs.
Professor of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Heidi Probst, is the Principal Investigator for the Respire project. She spent 14-years as a therapeutic radiographer in the NHS before moving into research.
Professor Heidi Probst said: "The side effects of radiotherapy can have a huge impact on a patient’s life. Good quality, evidence-based information can ensure patients are prepared and empowered to seek further advice or support when needed.
“With our new Respire+ resources, we aim to standardise the advice available for patients, and support healthcare professionals working in this area.
“We couldn’t have delivered this important project without the Weston Park Cancer Charity grant, and we’re very grateful for the charity’s support.”
Sheffield Hallam University students were also involved in the development of the resources. The website was developed by an undergraduate computer science student, and four students with second languages supported the translation of the materials into Cantonese, Polish, Urdu and Punjabi to improve accessibility and impact of the resources.
Grace Rawson, Governance and Executive Support Manager at Weston Park Cancer Charity, said:
“The Respire project is a brilliant example of how a local initiative can benefit people living with and beyond cancer across the whole country.
“We’re proud to have supported this work and would like to congratulate the Respire team on producing such a fantastic set of resources.”
