community-led...

Our community-led evaluation explored the impact of BRAVE, our prototype visual decision aid for women undergoing or having undergone mastectomy, with or without breast reconstruction.

Specifically, we sought to:

• Evaluate whether BRAVE’s combination of images, text, and patient reflections supported informed decision-making 
• Determine areas for improvement in the prototype to refine BRAVE for its next version

A mix of pre- and post operative patients were interviewed both in person and online. The evaluation included diverse groups across ethnicities and ages, as well as patients with high risk gene mutations (e.g. BRCA). 

Supported by Against Breast Cancer and HumanListening, the evaluation provides insights into how and when BRAVE should be introduced within the NHS patient pathway.

insights & recommendations...

Across participant groups, BRAVE was consistently described as informative, emotionally supportive, and empowering. Women reported feeling less alone, more confident in their decisions, and better equipped to navigate conversations with clinicians and loved ones. The resource was praised for its warm tone, inclusive diversity, and balance of imagery and narrative, offering a compassionate alternative to traditional clinical materials. 

• Embedding BRAVE early in pathways can help patients process complex choices with greater confidence and less distress. 
• The combination of patient voices alongside images helps bridge the gap between medical expertise and lived experience. 
• Recognising the value of inclusive design—layout, tone, and accessibility features are central to patient safety and empowerment.