Kidney patients and their families can share their experiences of living with a long-term health condition to help shape new research into emotional support needs.

The charities National Voices and Centre for Mental Health have teamed up to investigate the emotional and psychological impact of living with a long-term physical health problem. They are hoping to gain a better understanding of how people’s emotional support needs are recognised, whether these are met and how support can be improved.

People affected by health conditions that can be managed but not cured, such as kidney disease, are being asked to get involved in the project by completing an online survey or taking part in a phone interview. Researchers are keen to hear from family members, partners and health or social care professionals about how they support people with long-term conditions.

Participants will be asked about the emotional impact of living with their condition, the support they currently receive, the support they would like to receive, or the ways they support others with health conditions and the impact this has on them.

Sandra Currie, chief executive at Kidney Research UK, said: “ It is so important that the views of people living with kidney disease are included in this national study. We know this group are at least twice as likely to have a mental health  , which is something we’re highlighting with our partnership with Centre for Mental Health. Together we’re calling for greater recognition and understanding of the mental health support needed by those affected by kidney disease. This is an important step in getting kidney patients’ voices heard.”

To find out more or to arrange a telephone interview with a researcher, email jo.wilton@centreformentalhealth.org.uk

To take part in the online survey visit:

• People with long-term health conditions
• Family members and partners
• Health and social care professionals