Phase 1: Mixed-methods study to map and evaluate services for people with co-occurring AUD and depression across one case study health and social care system (NENC ICS). A cross-sectional survey questionnaire will be administered to organizations that provide services/support for this population. Questions will capture data on key organizational characteristics (sector, services, location) as well as to enable assessment of the inter-organisational relationships that exist across the NENC ICS. Data will be captured in an online survey platform, managed in Microsoft Excel, and converted to UCINET for social network analysis purposes. Next, we will conduct semi-structured qualitative interviews with 20-25 service providers and 35-40 patients/service users, to explore their views on/experiences of accessing/providing co-morbid AUD and depression services in the NENC ICS, and their perspectives on using digital technology to improve care.

Phase 2: Develop and pilot a digital navigator to improve access to/coordination of AUD and depression services in the NENC ICS. User-informed design methods will shape the development of a digital navigator tool that includes features such as: personalization (secure, tailored interface); support (signposting to/psychoeducation about support services or access to digital interventions); and coordination (digitally-enabled care pathways). Early stage piloting of the digital navigator will be carried out to investigate the feasibility/acceptability of implementation in routine primary healthcare. The pilot will seek to quantify how/when the navigator is used with eligible patients; to explore implementation barriers/facilitators with patients/clinicians; and to determine whether further refinements are required before full-scale evaluation