Exploring the Role That a Helpline Could Play for People Diagnosed With Sarcoma and Their Carers

Background: Sarcoma represents a group of cancers that carry a disproportionate impact on the well‐being of people who are diagnosed and carers. Unlike more common cancers, limited tumour‐specific support exists for people with sarcoma and carers. The aim of this study was to explore the potential role a telephone helpline could play in supporting people diagnosed with sarcoma and carers. Methods: This study utilised an exploratory qualitative approach with a social constructionist framework. Semistructured interviews were conducted with people diagnosed with sarcoma, carers, bereaved carers and health professionals. Reflexive thematic analysis was conducted to determine themes. Results: 43 semistructured interviews were conducted with people with sarcoma ( n = 12), carers ( n = 11), bereaved carers ( n = 4) and health professionals ( n = 16). Five themes were identified: ‘the current system is not meeting needs,’ ‘holistic support,’ ‘a source of credible information,’ ‘the helpline operator’ and ‘centralised support for my sarcoma.’ Conclusion: Significant unmet needs continue to exist for people diagnosed with sarcoma and carers. A community support helpline was conceptualised as a helpful and effective tool for meeting the medical, psychosocial and information needs of all people impacted by sarcoma.