Analytic Strategy
The audio recordings were transcribed verbatim using the Otter programme (www.otter.ai) and analysis took place in NVivo 11 (https://www.qsrinternational.com/nvivo/). Braun and Clarke’s (2006, 2019) reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. We adopted an inductive approach, focusing on what was personally meaningful to participants. This approach aligned with our focus on developing rich experiential themes that could capture latent features of the data (rather than purely semantic) and thus offer nuanced insights into participants’ subjective experiences.
Transcripts were analysed by four authors (EA, JC, AH and PS). Braun and Clarke’s six stage guide (2006) was used. EA began analysis first, familiarising themselves with the dataset and generating initial codes. After approximately 25% of the transcripts had been coded, these codes were explored to develop an initial set of themes. The remaining three authors analysed the final 75% of the transcripts, reviewing the themes and developing as appropriate. Once all data had been analysed, EA, JC, AH and PS engaged in reflexive discussion to explore the decisions made and examine where further consideration may be valuable; the thematic structure was then revisited and developed in line with this discussion. The approach taken was also informed by quality and rigour principles and guidance, particularly that outlined by Yardley (2000) of sensitivity to the research context, commitment and rigour, transparency and coherence, and impact and importance.