Family Peer Support Work: A Review of Irish & International Literature
This report reviews Irish and international literature on family peer support in mental health and addiction, aiming to inform the development of a Family Peer Support Worker Toolkit for Irish mental health services. Funded by the HSE Mental Health Engagement and Recovery Office, the review examines global practices and evidence.
Key Findings:
Global Practices Vary: Some countries provide structured frameworks for family peer support, including training and supervision, while Ireland lacks formal systems.
Positive Outcomes: Family peer support improves empowerment, mental health, self-care, and service satisfaction while reducing distress and isolation.
Challenges: Barriers include stigma, limited access, and unclear roles for workers. Negative experiences, like emotional strain in group settings, were also noted.
Recommendations:
The report highlights co-production and standardization as priorities, offering 12 recommendations to enhance access, training, integration, and support for family peer workers. These insights aim to strengthen Irish mental health services and outcomes for families.