N05 Developing a Web-Based Intervention to Enhance Psychosocial Wellbeing and Resilience in Family Members of Individuals with Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Background Family members of people living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) often experience uncertainty, emotional strain, and limited access to tailored information and support. Although earlier co-design work identified priority needs, few theory-informed, user-centred interventions exist to address the psychosocial and relational challenges faced by families. Therefore, this study aims to develop a theory-driven digital intervention -FamilyBridge for IBD -to enhance psychosocial wellbeing, support coping, and strengthen resilience among family members of individuals with IBD. Methods Following the MRC framework for developing complex interventions [1], the development process was informed by a systematic review, qualitative interviews, and an initial co-design workshop. A behavioural analysis using COM-B and the Behaviour Change Wheel [2] identified target behaviours and suitable intervention functions. These were integrated with the Extended Common-Sense Model [3] and Family Systems Theory [4] to construct a programme theory and logic model. A multicomponent prototype was then created and refined through two stages: multidisciplinary expert consultation (IBD nursing, family therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Information Technology, web designer) and end-user testing in a follow-up co-design workshop, where participants reviewed usability, relevance, and functionality. Results Two behavioural targets: improving access to trusted IBD knowledge and increasing opportunities for peer support, informed the intervention design. The final platform comprises four psychoeducational modules, moderated peer-support spaces, lived-experience videos, self-care and caregiving toolkits, and signposting to credible resources. The logic model outlined two key mechanisms of change: a knowledge pathway (reducing uncertainty and strengthening illness understanding to improve coping and self-efficacy) and a peer-support pathway (emotional validation and shared coping to reduce isolation and enhance resilience). Expected outcomes include improved knowledge, coping, self-efficacy, support engagement, and resilience, with longer-term gains in wellbeing and reduced caregiver burden. Expert consultation and end-user testing informed refinements to usability, clarity, accessibility, and navigation. Conclusion Through a structured, evidence-informed and stakeholder-driven process, FamilyBridge for IBD was developed as a comprehensive digital intervention supporting the psychosocial needs of families. Iterative refinement ensured theoretical coherence, clinical relevance, and strong user acceptability. The intervention is now ready for formal usability and feasibility testing. References: 1. Skivington, K., et al., A new framework for developing and evaluating complex interventions: update of Medical Research Council guidance. BMJ, 2021. 374: p. n2061. 2. Michie, S., L. Atkins, and R. West, The behaviour change wheel. A guide to designing interventions, 2014. 1: p. 1003-1010. 3. Leventhal, H., I. Brissette, and E.A. Leventhal, The common-sense model of self-regulation of health and illness, in The self-regulation of health and illness behaviour. 2012, Routledge. p. 43-66. 4. Bowen, M., The use of family theory in clinical practice. Comprehensive psychiatry, 1966. 7(5): p. 345-374. Conflict of interest: Thapwong, Parichat: Grant: N-ECCO grant Norton, Christine: Personal Fees: Janssen: lecture fee WebMD lecture fee Medscape symposium fee Merck Pharmaceuticals lecture fee Pfizer advisory board fee Rowland, Emma: No conflict of interest Czuber-Dochan, Wladyslawa: Grant: National Institute of Health Research, Bristol Myers Squibb, and Crohn’s and Colitis UK Personal Fees: Dr Falk Pharma UK and PharmaCosmos