To co-develop a digital referral tool for NHS CAMHS that is usable, engaging, and accessible for individuals with disabilities.
Approach:
Development of PDDAG: The Pan-Disability Digital Accessibility Group (PDDAG) was formed with input from an NIHR Expert-by-Experience to ensure diverse representation of individuals with disabilities in the usability testing process.
Recruitment and Sampling: Members were recruited through opportunity sampling, prioritizing those with experience accessing NHS CAMHS, while ensuring a range of accessibility needs were represented.
Key Findings:
Usability testing workshops led to changes in the digital referral tool, including modifications to multi-factor authentication and navigation.
Engagement with advisory groups with lived experience ensured accessibility was prioritized during development.
Interpretation:
The study emphasizes the importance of inclusive design principles in developing digital mental health tools to avoid widening the digital divide for individuals with disabilities.
Limitations:
The PDDAG was limited to a maximum of 15 members, which may not fully represent the diversity of experiences among individuals with disabilities.
The focus on individuals aged 16 and over may exclude younger perspectives on accessibility needs.
Conclusion:
Involving stakeholders with disabilities in the design process is crucial for creating effective digital mental health tools.
by Heidi Tranter, Nathan Giles, Thomas Price, Charlotte Stockton-Powdrell, Simon Foster, Sanaullah Alam, Lamiece Hassan, Julian Edbrooke Childs, Marta Chmielowska, Mia Vines Booth, Kathryn M. Abel, Pauline Whelan
