Information for Families

The Go-OSCA Trial is a University of Oxford research project we are running in the NHS, which aims to improve the care of young people aged 11-18 with social anxiety disorder. We are comparing a new online therapy called OSCA (Online Social anxiety Cognitive therapy for Adolescents) to standard treatment in the NHS.

The Go-OSCA project is funded by the MRC, with additional support from the NIHR and NIHR Oxford Health BRC. The project is delivered in collaboration with the AnDY Clinics in Reading and Oxford.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

The Go-OSCA project is available to families living in Berkshire and Oxfordshire. Young people may be invited to take part in Go-OSCA if they are referred to the AnDY Research Clinics in Oxford and Reading and offered treatment for social anxiety disorder.

In some areas, schools and colleges may also work with the Go-OSCA research team to help identify young people who might benefit from support for social anxiety. This involves a short screening questionnaire which students complete in school. Young people who indicate that they would like support may then be offered a brief triage call to discuss next steps. For under 16s, parents or carers will be contacted before any referral is made. At the end of the triage call, the team can support a referral to the clinic for a full routine assessment if this is indicated, or if not, we will provide feedback and signposting to appropriate support.

In the Go-OSCA trial, we want to compare two treatments. Young people who take part will therefore be randomly allocated to receive either the online therapy (OSCA) or the usual treatment offered in NHS mental health services (graded CBT). This is like making the decision by tossing a coin.

OSCA is currently being rolled out in some NHS mental health services. To find out about accessing treatments for social anxiety in your area, speak to your GP.

If you would like to find out more about the project, please get in touch with us.

Here you can find information booklets, videos, and summary sheets about the Go-OSCA study. These explain what the study involves and what taking part would mean for young people and families.