Chronic Headache Education and Self-management Study (CHESS) is a multi-centre, randomised controlled trial evaluating an education and self-management support programme for people living with chronic headaches (headache ≥ 15 days/month for ≥ 3 months). The trial is led by Professor Martin Underwood at the Clinical Trials Unit, University of Warwick.

We are currently recruiting people aged ≥18 years living with chronic headaches from across the Midlands and North-east London

 What will it involve for participants?

All participants will be asked to:

· Complete an electronic diary of headache frequency, duration and severity weekly for 6 months and monthly for a further 6 months

· Complete a telephone interview with a research nurse to classify their headache type

· Complete postal questionnaires at baseline, 4, 8 and 12 months

Participants will be randomised to either:

a. A group headache education and self-management support programme

Participants will attend a two day education and self-management course held at a venue close to their practice; followed by a one-to-one consultation and up to eight weeks of telephone support with a nurse

b. Usual GP care plus relaxation CD

Participants will receive standard treatment and sent a relaxation CD

 What will it involve for GP Practices?

· Identification of potential participants from computer record search

· Screening of list before mail-out

· Mail-out of study invitation letters (via Docmail)

· Access to patient records for data collection of consultations, health service activity, and medication use related to headaches at 12 months

 If your practice is interested in taking part in the study or you would like any further information regarding CHESS please contact your local research facilitator