The feasibility of online Shared Reading for gynaecological cancers
This study explores if an online 'Shared Reading' group is a good idea and helpful for women affected by gynaecological cancers. The aim is to see if these groups are practical to run online, if people like them, and how they might affect mental health, overall well-being, and daily life. You'd join a small group online for six weekly sessions, reading stories and poems together for about an hour each time. It's a relaxed space where you can join in as much or as little as you like, sharing thoughts and feelings if you wish. The study hopes to improve support for women with gynaecological cancer in the future.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is called 'The feasibility of online Shared Reading for gynaecological cancers'. 'Gynaecological cancers' are cancers that affect a woman's reproductive organs, such as ovarian, cervical, or womb cancer. The researchers want to find out if an online reading club, where people read and discuss stories and poems together, could be a helpful and enjoyable way for women with these cancers to connect and support each other.
The main goal is to see if it's practical to run these reading groups online and if women find them helpful. They also want to understand if taking part improves feelings of well-being, mental health, and overall quality of life. Your involvement would help us learn more and potentially lead to new support services for women facing similar health challenges.
The idea is to create a comfortable, relaxed space where participants can share their thoughts and feelings about the readings, or simply listen to others. This study is important because it could show a new way to offer support and build a sense of community for people affected by gynaecological cancers, no matter where they live in the UK or internationally.
Key takeaways
- It's an online reading group for women with gynaecological cancers.
- It aims to see if online reading groups are practical and helpful for well-being.
- Participation involves 6 weekly one-hour online sessions and questionnaires.
- You can take part from anywhere with an internet connection.
- Your involvement could help improve future support services.
- You can withdraw from the study at any time.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for women aged 18 or older who were assigned female at birth. You must have been diagnosed with a gynaecological cancer, such as cervical, ovarian, or womb cancer. This includes if you are currently having treatment or if your cancer is now gone.
There are a few reasons why someone might not be able to join. For example, if you've already taken part in similar 'Shared Reading' groups before, or if you have a different type of cancer where the original site is unknown, or if your gynaecological cancer is a secondary cancer (meaning it started somewhere else).
You also need to be able to understand the study information and speak English well enough to take part in the online reading sessions. If you're currently receiving other types of talking therapy, like counselling, you also won't be able to join.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Were you assigned female at birth?
- Have you been diagnosed with a gynaecological cancer (e.g., ovarian, cervical, womb)?
- Are you able to speak and understand English well enough for online discussions?
- Are you not currently receiving other psychological therapies like counselling?
What does participation involve?
If you're interested, you might hear about the study through support groups, social media, or your hospital. To start, you'll complete a short online survey (about 10 minutes) to check if you're eligible. If you are, you'll be invited to join an online reading group.
These groups meet once a week for six weeks, for up to 60 minutes each time. The sessions happen online using Zoom or Microsoft Teams and won't be recorded. You can choose to read aloud or speak, or just listen. You'll complete short online questionnaires about your mental health and well-being at several points: two weeks before the group, one week before, at the start of week one, at week three, and at the end of week six. You'll also be invited to an optional 30-minute interview to share your experiences.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- -Approximate-, England
Common questions
What exactly is 'Shared Reading'?
It's a group where people read stories and poems together aloud and then chat about what they've heard and how it makes them feel, creating a shared experience.
How long will I be involved in the study?
Your involvement will last for six weeks, with one online reading session each week, plus some questionnaires before, during, and after, and an optional interview.
Do I have to speak during the online sessions?
No, you don't have to. You can choose to read aloud, share your thoughts, or simply listen to others. The aim is for a relaxed atmosphere.
What if I miss a session or want to stop participating?
It's okay to miss a few sessions. If you complete at least half, you'll still get the voucher. You can also stop taking part at any time without giving a reason.
When does the study start?
Recruitment for the study starts in November 2025, and the online reading groups are planned to begin in January 2026.
How to find out more
Sonia Tomescu
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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