Exploring the difference made by Support at home 19 3 Evaluation methodology 3.1 design assess change, and also included a section on the service users’ experiences of the service (see 8 A mixed-methods approach was taken, Appendix D for a copy of the questionnaires). incorporating quantitative and qualitative data collected from service users, Red Cross staff and Semi-structured telephone interviews were volunteers, and referrers to the Support at home conducted with Red Cross staff, volunteers and service. Face-to-face interviews were conducted referrers to gather their views on and perceptions with service users in their own homes, before and of the service (see Appendices E and F for a copy after receiving the service. In the interviews we of the interview schedules used). asked them how confident they were that they could do certain things, such as carrying out daily Data analysis incorporated summary descriptives, activities (looking after themselves, doing tasks cross-tabulations and significance tests to look for around the home, or getting out and about), and differences before and after the intervention, as managing their finances. We also asked service well as thematic analysis of the qualitative data users about their coping skills (whether they were gathered across all the interviews. able to take their mind off their worries, make their own decisions, keep on top of things and 3.2 Sample cope with life at home). Emotional wellbeing, perceived social connectedness, and satisfaction 3.2.1 Site selection with life were also key measures of interest. The questionnaire was designed following a A case study approach was adopted, due to review of validated scales that measure older distinct local contexts, varied needs for service people’s health and wellbeing, alongside a wider provision and the different local commissioning consultation exercise, both internal and external. priorities, which lead to a varied service offer The questions were then cognitively tested and across the country. piloted. The post-service questionnaire had the 8 All research fieldwork documentation is available from the research team same questions as the pre-service interview, to at the British Red Cross, i.e. information sheets, advance letters, consent forms, interviewer instructions etc.