A Mixed Methods Service Evaluation of a Peer Supported Breakfast Group in Adult Inpatient Burn Rehabilitation

Burn injuries can have profound physical and psychological consequences, making holistic rehabilitation essential. This mixed methods service evaluation explored a peer-supported breakfast group delivered as part of routine occupational therapy practice for adult inpatient burn survivors with the aim of understanding acceptability, perceived benefits and feasibility. All English speaking inpatients aged >18 years who attended were invited (n=36; n=9 completed). A convergent design integrated open ended survey responses with PROMIS patient reported outcome items, analysed thematically and interpreted using the RE AIM (Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, Maintenance) and MMR RHS (Mixed Methods Reporting – Rehabilitation and Health Sciences) frameworks. Quantitative findings suggested high perceived physical function, strong emotional support, low anxiety and depression, low social isolation, and moderate pain interference. Reflexive thematic analysis generated four themes: fostering human connection and emotional wellbeing; restoring autonomy and confidence; preparing physically and psychologically for discharge; and the influence of the rehabilitation environment. Limitations include small sample size, low response rate, absence of baseline or control data and potential selection bias. While descriptive only, findings provide early insight into the acceptability and perceived value of peer supported group activity in inpatient burn care. Larger controlled studies with baseline measurement are needed to evaluate effectiveness and implementation feasibility.