Supporting patients facing drug-resistant infections: Behind the scenes with Antibiotic Research UK’s patient support team

Spotlight on the Patient Support Team, Antibiotic Research UK
By Nicola Osmond-Evans, Antibiotic  Research  UK

This World AMR Awareness Week (WAAW) 2024, we at Antibiotic Research UK are taking the opportunity to spotlight one of our most impactful initiatives: our Patient Support Team led by Aileen Bryson and Dee Grant. This team is at the heart of our mission to provide guidance, education, and a compassionate ear to those affected by antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

Why Patient Support Matters

AMR is a growing public health crisis that affects thousands in the UK each year. Infections that don’t respond to treatment with standard antibiotics can lead to long treatment regimens, significant physical discomfort, and emotional strain. Our Patient Support Service (PSS) was established to address this gap in support and ensure that no one feels alone when navigating such challenges.

Who Are the Faces Behind the Patient Support Team?

Our team is made up of experienced professionals who bring a blend of medical expertise, nursing and pharmacy, with heartfelt empathy to their work. Dee Grant and Aileen Bryson, co-Patient Support Leads, embody the team’s dedication. With a background a passion for public health, they, with support from colleague Ellie Dale, ensure that patients and their families receive the understanding and support they need during some of their most difficult times​.

How We Help

• Confidential Consultations: Our team offers one-on-one support via phone and online, empowering patients and their families with high quality information, comfort and support
• Comprehensive Resources: From e-leaflets to our “Ask” feature, we provide accurate, accessible, and practical advice tailored to various types of antibiotic-resistant infections.
• Peer Support: Through virtual support groups, patients can connect, share experiences, and feel part of a community that truly understands their struggles.

A Human-Centred Approach

The power of our work lies in centring the voices of those most affected by AMR. Stories like Caroline Sampson’s, a Patient Advocate who battles chronic UTIs due to resistant bacteria, bring to light the real-life impact of AMR. “The support from Antibiotic Research UK has lifted my spirits and given me hope,” Caroline shares. Such feedback fuels our dedication and reminds us why patient support is crucial​.

Expanding Our Reach

We strive to make our service accessible to all, including individuals from inclusion health groups. By tailoring our resources culturally and linguistically and engaging with diverse communities, we aim to bridge gaps in care and advocacy​.

The Bigger Picture: Tackling AMR Together

While our Patient Support Service is a vital lifeline for those affected by AMR, it’s crucial to remember that the fight against drug-resistant infections extends beyond individual support. AMR is not only a challenge for patients, but it also places immense pressure on healthcare systems, and has a profound impact on public health and the economy. By raising awareness during World AMR Awareness Week, we aim to draw attention to the urgent need for comprehensive action, from improved infection prevention, to investing in research and ensuring sustainable antibiotic stewardship practices across all sectors.

As part of our mission, Antibiotic Research UK is committed to working with policymakers, healthcare professionals, and patients to find lasting solutions to the AMR crisis. However, we can’t do this alone. Each and every one of us has a role to play in advocating for better patient care, stronger policies, and a more informed public. Together, we can help tackle the rise of drug-resistant infections and support those who need it most.

A Special WAAW Event: Educating on Optimising UTI Management

As part of our World AMR Awareness Week (WAAW) activities, Antibiotic Research UK’s Patient Support Team hosted a prelude event—a free CPD-accredited webinar titled “UTIs – Optimising Patient Management from Sample to Treatment” on 13th November. In alignment with this year’s WAAW theme of “Educate,” the webinar provided a detailed exploration of the microbiological journey of a urine sample, from collection to report generation.

Featured Speakers:

• Dr Peter Gayo Munthali (FRCPath), Antimicrobial Stewardship Lead, UHCW NHS Trust
• Aileen Bryson (FRPharmS), Patient Support Lead, Antibiotic Research UK

The session closed with an interactive Q&A, allowing attendees to seek advice and practical solutions for clinical challenges. We also shared insights into Antibiotic Research UK’s Patient Support Service and clinician-focused resources, and presented a compelling patient story that highlighted the profound impact of chronic UTIs and antibiotic resistance on quality of life. Recording available here

How You Can Get Involved

We invite healthcare professionals, patients, and supporters to join us in raising awareness and championing the needs of those affected by AMR during WAAW 2024 and beyond. Visit antibioticresearch.org.uk/patientsupport to learn more about our services, share your story, or access resources.

#AMRAdvocate