Document resource
Background Over 14 million adults in England are currently living with multimorbidity, and this number is predicted to rise by 37% by 2040 (Health Foundation, 2023). Female sex is a factor independently associated with increased risk of developing multimorbidity (Bisquera et al., 2021). Women are more likely to have combinations of physical and mental health multimorbidity. The WHO encourage the adoption of a broader definition of women’s health that accounts for more than just women’s reproductive, maternal and gynaecological health.Methods This qualitative study was led by a Researcher from the VCSE sector, and a steering group comprised of members with lived experience of multimorbidity. Data was collected using life history interviews and creative research methods. Life history interviews were used to understand the broader social processes women’s experiences were situated in, how they related to, and negotiated their conditions alongside their other commitments such as caregiving, and the cumulative impact of service experience across the life course. Creative methods were optional and utilised as a stimuli during semi-structured 1:1 interview. Researcher adaptability was paramount due to the complex multimorbidity of some participants, and text-based interviews were conducted with participants who had accessibility needs. Feedback was also collected from these individuals about their participation experience and how study accessibility could be improved.Results Data analysis currently underway but preliminary findings and early thematic analysis are revealing themes that reflect; the added complexities for women managing multimorbidity alongside neurodiversity, the fluid nature of trust as a factor in service engagement, and the limits of self-management for those living with fatigue.Discussion The project steering group informed areas to explore within the study, drawing on their lived experiences to highlight the challenges faced by those who have ‘visible’ and ‘invisible’ conditions and/or disabilities. This research has revealed the urgent need for further study into multimorbidity among women with neurodiversity, and the barriers they face when accessing good quality care. Dissemination of findings will require a cross partite approach, ensuring we reach academic, public and clinical audiences. Co-produced informational resources, an online seminar series and tailored presentations for charity partners will form part of a dissemination package, with the final outputs currently in development. As often reported across the VCSE sector, limited resources pose challenges during dissemination. However, this study has highlighted the strength of community groups and VCSE researchers in recruiting diverse study samples, supporting accessible participation and fostering meaningful co-production.