Search

Abstract Background Cervical screening rates have fallen in recent years in the UK, representing a health inequity for some under-served groups. Self-sampling alternatives to cervical screening may be useful where certain barriers prohibit access to routine cervical screening. However, there is limited evidence on whether self-sampling methods address known barriers to cervical screening and subsequently increase uptake amongst under-screened groups. Addressing this research gap, the study aims to understand experiences during and barriers to attending cervical screening for under-screened groups and; explore the views of individuals eligible for screening towards self-sampling (vaginal swabbing and urine sampling) as alternative screening methods and how this may address existing barriers to screening. Methods We draw on three integrated theoretical frameworks (access to primary care services, intersectional and feminist perspectives) to examine participants’ barriers to screening and views toward self-sampling methods. We undertook primary qualitative data collection (interviews and focus groups) with 46 participants, facilitated by collaborations with the VCSE sector which successfully enhanced reach to under-served communities. Results Known barriers to cervical screening persist for under-screened participant groups, but we also find numerous examples of good practice where some participants’ needs were met throughout the screening process. Both positive and negative experiences tend to centre around experiences with healthcare professionals, with negative experiences also centring around the use of the speculum. Self-sampling methods (vaginal swab and urine collection) were positively received by participants, and may address some existing barriers through the proponents of enhanced choice – between method and location (which also dovetailed with convenience) leading to greater empowerment. The removal of the speculum and lack of invasive examination by a healthcare professional was also positively received. Conclusions Whilst barriers to cervical screening remain for under-served groups, examples of good practice are prevalent. Such examples should be implemented more widely to ensure consistency in patient experience and to ensure needs are better met for under-served groups. The introduction of self-sampling alongside traditional methods may reduce barriers to screening, and may boost screening rates for under-screened groups but only if they are implemented with appropriate information and sufficient communication. Failure to implement self-sampling without these considerations may threaten to undermine the identified and important benefits of self-sampling methods.

Abstract Background The response to the COVID-19 pandemic saw a significant increase in demand for the voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) sector to provide support to local communities. In Greater Manchester (GM), the VCFSE sector and informal networks provided health and wellbeing support in multiple ways, culminating in its crucial supportive role in the provision of the COVID-19 vaccination rollout across the GM city region. However, the support provided by the VCFSE sector during the pandemic remains under-recognised. The aims of the study were to: understand the views and experiences of marginalised communities in GM during the COVID-19 pandemic; explore how community engagement initiatives played a role during the pandemic and vaccine rollout; assess what can be learnt from the work of key stakeholders (community members, VCFSEs, health-system stakeholders) for future health research and service delivery. Methods The co-designed study utilised a participatory approach throughout and was co-produced with a Community Research Advisory Group (CRAG). Focus groups and semi-structured interviews were conducted remotely between September-November 2021, with 35 participants from local marginalised communities, health and care system stakeholders and VCFSE representatives. Thematic framework analysis was used to analyse the data. Results Local communities in GM were not supported sufficiently by mainstream services during the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in increased pressure onto the VCFSE sector to respond to local communities’ need. Community-based approaches were deemed crucial to the success of the vaccination drive and in providing support to local communities more generally during the pandemic, whereby such approaches were in a unique position to reach members of diverse communities to boost uptake of the vaccine. Despite this, the support delivered by the VCFSE sector remains under-recognised and under-valued by the health system and decision-makers. Conclusions A number of challenges associated with collaborative working were experienced by the VSCE sector and health system in delivering the vaccination programme in partnership with the VCFSE sector. There is a need to create a broader, more inclusive health system which allows and promotes inter-sectoral working. Flexibility and adaptability in ongoing and future service delivery should be championed for greater cross-sector working.