A Qualitative Study Investigating the Continued Adoption of Breaking Free Online Across a National Substance Misuse Organisation: Theoretical Conceptualisation of Staff Perceptions

There is evidence for the effectiveness of computer-assisted therapies (CAT) in healthcare; however, implementing CAT can be challenging due to new technologies being perceived as ‘disruptive’. This study used normalisation process theory (NPT) to investigate how Breaking Free Online (BFO), a treatment programme for substance misuse, is embedded as normal practice within Crime Reduction Initiatives (CRI), a health and social care charity. Interviews were conducted with CRI staff regarding their perceptions of the normalisation of BFO. Thematic analyses were used and findings structured around NPT. Results suggest that staff understood the benefits of BFO, particularly for those with a dual diagnosis. However, there was some confusion surrounding job roles and difficulties with the availability of resources. Whilst normalisation of BFO is progressing within CRI, there are still some challenges. Clarification of the roles of staff and peer mentors is an area in which further work is being conducted.