Experiences and impact of the UK lockdown amongst adults who have a facial visible difference

Supporting individuals with a visible difference: A UK survey of needs and preferences

Individuals with visible differences, resulting from injuries, health conditions, or treatment, can face varied and lasting psychosocial effects. Existing psychosocial interventions are limited, with inconsistent support noted by specialists. Improved provision and accessibility are crucial; yet, the self-perceived needs remain underreported. This study explored the self-reported support needs of affected adults to better understand their needs and inform support provision. An online survey conducted in the UK from October to December 2022 inquired about support preferences, delivery methods, and current and future anticipated considerations when seeking assistance. Quantitative data were analyzed statistically, and open-ended responses were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Five hundred and fifty individuals (aged 18-82 years; 489 (88.9 %) female) participated. The majority (80.5 %) wanted more information on potential treatments, while 53.6 % wanted insights into causes, and 61.3 % wanted help accepting their appearance. Preferred sources included healthcare professionals (89.3 %), online/digital platforms (websites 65.8 %, online support groups 47.6 %) and in-person support (counseling (45.8 %), support groups (37.5 %)). Participants' support-seeking decisions were influenced by access to condition-specific information, evidence-based practices, and healthcare professional awareness. Individuals with visible differences require holistic support from various providers, delivered in a range of formats. Findings can inform support strategies and services.

The impact of COVID-19 on the well-being of Victorian children born with cleft lip and/or palate

BACKGROUND

A longitudinal cohort study was established to investigate the well-being of children born with cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) during the COVID-19 pandemic, in Victoria, Australia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The Royal Children's Hospital cleft service database was used to identify children aged between 4 and 17 years old born with an isolated CL/P. Families of eligible children who consented to participate were asked to complete the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) between October and December 2020 and again 6-month later. SDQ results from typically developing Australian children during the COVID-19 pandemic were utilized from a previously published study.

RESULTS

63 parents completed the baseline questionnaire, with 44 completing the 6-month follow-up. For participants at baseline, the mean age was 8.9 years, with 55% male. All outcome domains of the SDQ improved between baseline and timepoint 2, with the difference in total difficulties scores being statistically significant, indicating a reduction in total difficulties at timepoint 2, associated with the easing of COVID-19 restrictions. When compared with the Australian population during the COVID-19 pandemic, Victorian children born with CL/P had lower SDQ scores for all difficulties outcome domains, with statistically significant results for conduct problems, hyperactivity, peer problems and total difficulties, indicating fewer difficulties for children born with CL/P.

CONCLUSIONS

Children born with CL/P experienced fewer difficulties when compared with the typically developing Australian population during the COVID-19 pandemic. The level of restrictions imposed because of the pandemic also had little influence on the well-being of these children.