Peer support worker initial training content

Introduction: Peer support worker (PSW) initial training is integral for the mental health peer support worker (PSW) role.  Training needs to incorporate the advances in digital peer support and increase in PSW roles internationally. Currently, there is a lack of evidence on training topics that are important for initial PSW training and on which training topics can be provided on the internet.



​Method : A systematized review was conducted to identify a preliminary list of training topics from existing training manuals. The Delphi consultation consisted of three rounds to establish the importance and web-based deliverability of each topic. In round 1, participants were asked to rate the training topics for importance, and the topic list was refined. In rounds 2 and 3, participants were asked to rate each topic for importance and the extent to which they could be delivered over the internet.



Results: The systematized review identified 32 training manuals from 14 countries. These were synthesized to develop a preliminary list of 18 topics. The Delphi consultation involved 110 participants (49 PSWs, 36 managers, and 25 researchers) from 21 countries. After the Delphi consultation (round 1: n=110; round 2: n=89; and round 3: n=82), 20 training topics were identified. There was a strong consensus about the importance of five topics: lived experience as an asset, ethics, PSW well-being, and PSW role focus on recovery and communication. All training topics were identified with a strong consensus as being deliverable through blended web-based, face-to-face training or fully deliverable on the internet with moderation.



Discussion The 20 training topics identified can be recommended for inclusion in the curriculum of initial training programs for PSWs. Further research on web-based delivery of initial training is needed to understand the role of web-based moderation and whether web-based training better prepares recipients for web-based peer support.