ABSTRACT
Introduction: The aim of this feasibility pilot was to develop and adapt an ACT group for adolescents with epilepsy for virtual delivery in the context of Covid-19 restriction. The psychological theory and strategies used as part of the group content was based on an ACT approach and its efficacy in chronic health settings. Method: A virtual platform was used to deliver five weekly 1.5 hour sessions to adolescents aged between 12-17 years living with epilepsy. The CompACT and Peds-QL (Teenager) were used to collect quantitative outcome data. We received 18 referrals across two groups;one in July 2020 and one in January 2021. 11 adolescents attended the group in total with the mean age being 15.18 years. Results: Across attendees who completed both pre and post measures (N=2), psychosocial health scores improved by 29%, and psychological flexibility scores improved by 46% following completion of the group. The group was described as 'friendly', 'helpful', 'informing' and a 'sense of community' during qualitative feedback collection. Discussion: The accessibility of the virtual format was suited to the population. Experiential activities were successfully adapted for online delivery. Managing seizure risk virtually was challenging and was mediated by the consideration of an appropriate platform. The reach and communication of group advertisement to appropriate referrers was challenging during busy service periods, to ensure sufficient referrals to make the sessions viable. Conclusion: Moving forward the service will be widening access of the ACT group to referrals from other paediatric clinical health teams within Gwent (July 2021). We will continue with inter-professional delivery to promote psychological working across disciplines and wider dissemination of psychological resource. More formal and systematic appraisal of group efficacy will be key for future development.