Daily bread: a novel vehicle for dissemination and evaluation of psychological first aid for families exposed to armed conflict in Syria

摘要

BackgroundRisks to the mental health of children and families exposed to conflict in Syria are of such magnitude that research identifying how best to deliver psychological first aid is urgently required. This study tested the feasibility of a novel approach to large-scale distribution of information and data collection.MethodsRoutine humanitarian deliveries of bread by a bakery run by an NGO, were used to distribute parenting information leaflets and questionnaires to adults looking after children in conflict zones inside Syria. Study materials were emailed to a project worker in Turkey. Leaflets and questionnaires requesting feedback were transported alongside supplies to a bakery in Syria, then packed with flatbreads. Three thousand bread-packs were distributed, from three distribution points to which questionnaires were returned, then taken to Turkey and dispatched to the UK.FindingsNotwithstanding delays, 3000 leaflets and questionnaires were successfully distributed over two days. Questionnaire return yielded 1783 responses, a 59·5% return rate. Overall ratings of the usefulness of the leaflet were 1060(59∙5%) “quite a lot” and 339(19∙0%) “a great deal”. Content analysis was used to code 400 respondent comments. Four themes emerged; positive comments about the leaflet, suggestions for modifications, descriptions of children’s needs and the value respondents placed on faith.InterpretationFindings indicate the willingness of NGO staff and volunteers to assist research, the remarkable willingness of caregivers to respond, and the value of brief advice. It demonstrates the scope for using existing humanitarian routes to distribute information and receive feedback even in high risk settings.