Changing the trajectories of mental health difficulties in Norfolk and Suffolk: a research-priority-setting project with patients, the public, clinicians, policymakers and other stakeholders-study protocol

Introduction: Mental health problems are the most significant cause of disability and have high annual economic costs; hence, they are a priority for the government, service providers and policymakers. Consisting of largely coastal and rural communities, the populations of Norfolk and Suffolk, UK, have elevated burdens of mental health problems, areas with high levels of deprivation and an increasing migrant population. However, these communities are underserved by research and areas with the greatest mental health needs are not represented or engaged in research. This National Institute of Health and Care Research-funded project aims to bring together key stakeholders to conduct extensive scoping work to identify mental health needs and priorities as a basis for conducting larger research to address the identified priorities over the next 5 years.

Methods and analysis: This 12-month mixed-methods research-priority-setting project consists of five phases. It is being conducted in Norfolk and Suffolk counties in the East of England, UK. Underpinned by Delphi methodology, it will adopt the James Lind Alliance approach to identify priorities for mental health research for the populations of Norfolk and Suffolk. The project will use multiple methods, including mapping and identification of stakeholders, online questionnaires, face-to-face focus groups and interviews, and consensus meetings with experts and mental health stakeholders. Key evidence-informed priorities will be collaboratively ranked and documented, and a final top 10 research priorities will be identified to inform future research, policy and service provision.

Ethics and dissemination: This study was approved by the University of East Anglia's Faculty of Medicine and Health Research Ethics Committee (reference: ETH2324-2542), Norwich, UK. Research findings will be disseminated through workshops with stakeholders and collaborators and via peer-reviewed scientific publications, presentations at academic societies, blogs and social media.