Is the Family Talk Intervention feasible in paediatric oncology? An evaluation of a family-based psychosocial intervention.

Aim To examine the feasibility of a family-based psychosocial intervention, Family Talk Intervention (FTI), in paediatric oncology in terms of recruitment, retention, delivery, response rate, and acceptability from the parents' perspective. Methods This study involved 26 families affected by childhood cancer. FTI encompasses six family meetings, with the main goal being to facilitate family communication about illness-related subjects. Meeting 5 is preferably moderated by the parents. Extra meetings (7-11) can be held if needed. This paper includes observational data and surveys, and interviews with parents. Results All families who started FTI underwent the full intervention and the survey response rate varied between 100% and 71% over time. Extra meetings were held with most families. The parents stated that FTI filled a gap of support to the family as a unit and described FTI as a map they could follow. Since FTI was conducted at home, this created a safe environment which contributed to their participation. The parents valued the children's perspectives being considered, but some felt uncomfortable moderating "the family talk" (meeting 5). Conclusion FTI was valued by parents, but it would benefit from being slightly modified before a large trial can be developed.