Original research; Evaluation of isolation support packages for young people in Lancaster District

Abstract

Abstract Objective To evaluate if offering incentives to young people testing positive for Covid-19 impacts on their adherence with self-isolation and associated impact on their health and wellbeing through isolation Design: Non-randomised controlled trial Setting: Lancaster district area Participants: 450 young people (aged 10–16 years) who were Covid positive from 17th January 2022 to 24th February 2022 divided into four groups based on their postcode. A mixed method approach with data collected via survey and focus groups. Intervention: Four groups: Group one received an activity pack and thank you gift for self-isolating (enhanced package); Group two received a thank you gift only; Group three received an activity pack only; Group four received no intervention (control group). Results The participants from the survey (n = 141) and the focus groups (n = 17) described the adverse impact of self-isolation of feeling lonely, isolated and missing friends and family and going out. The participants reported the best part of self-isolation was missing school, staying in bed and having more time to themselves. Participants who received the interventions reported it had a positive impact on their health and wellbeing. Conclusions This research highlights the importance of offering support to young people during isolation to reduce the negative impact on health and wellbeing and to motivate adherence by providing incentives. The research contributes to the learning on how to support young people to self-isolate with other infectious diseases and any future public health emergencies.