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.