The Problem:  Depression is commonly found alongside long-term health problems and frailty.  This is important since depression is treatable, but if ignored if leads to increased hospitalisation, poor quality of life and increased mortality. 

The BTx Lab solution: We worked with experts by experience to devise a structured telephone support solution to treat depressive symptoms using behavioural principles.  We used strategies to ensure people with clinical depression were able to build rewarding and purposeful activities into their day to day lives, even if they were impaired by long term health difficulties. 

What we found & key publications.  CASPER+ is one of the largest trials undertaken in primary care to manage depression in older people.  We found significant reductions in depression at four months, with improvements in Quality of Life [mental health].  The intervention was cost effective, representing good value for money for the NHS. This work is incorporated into NICE Guidelines for depression, and underpins the evidential basis of NHS care. 

You can read a summary of the clinical and cost effectiveness of the CASPER+ intervention. Read a summary of the research from NIHR. 

How this research was funded:  The CASPER+ study was supported by a £870K programme grant from NIHR [study number 10/57/43].  We worked in partnership with experts by experience and Age UK.