Non-directive coaching to support wellbeing: The impact of coaching on the wellbeing of informal cancer carers

Informal cancer carers experience lower wellbeing than the general population. An evidence base demonstrates wellbeing impacts of coaching, yet few cancer carer interventions use coaching. This study delivered a 4-session coaching intervention with 11 cancer carers, using post-intervention interviews to ascertain the impact of coaching on carers’ wellbeing. The study argues that non-directive coaching improves carer wellbeing by building a ‘safe space’ for carers to be heard, rather than emphasizing goal-setting or prescribing wellbeing topics. This research demonstrates the value of coaching in supporting cancer carers’ wellbeing, highlighting how coaching reduces negative-self talk and scaffolds carers’ permission to prioritize themselves.