Data analysis
Interview transcripts were analysed by two researchers (GJ; RH) using a
reflexive, inductive thematic analysis approach (18) to identify
‘semantic’ (i.e. surface, explicit) and ‘latent’ (i.e. implicit or
underlying) themes.(19) Repeated listening to the audio recordings
enabled initial familiarisation with the data then each researcher
independently conducted line-by-line coding, identified key words,
phrases and sentences (20) and used these to identify data driven themes
(21). Coding was iterative and refinement of themes and subthemes
evolved inductively over the course of the analysis.(22) A team-based
approach to coding was used(19) in which discrepancies were discussed
and themes and subthemes refined until shared understanding and
agreement was reached. (23) Measures used to assure the trustworthiness
of the analytic process included discussion between the two researchers
to facilitate constant comparison, refining and defining themes and
categories (24, 25), until a point of theoretical saturation. A third
researcher (JJ) then assessed the themes for face validity. The
contribution of the wider research team in coding and categorisation
checks, and discussion regarding the influence of the research context,
ensured the credibility, confirmability and dependability of the
analytic process (26).