Barriers and facilitators to peer support in Early Intervention in Psychosis Services

The first paper is a systematic literature review and thematic synthesis of staff experiences working in Early Intervention in Psychosis (EIP) services in the United Kingdom. A total of ten studies were selected for review. These were appraised using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. A thematic synthesis of the data was undertaken. The review found three key themes ‘Staff experiences of working with clients’, ‘Staff experiences of working in an EIP team’ and ‘Staff experiences of clients’ stigma’. Findings indicate that therapeutic relationships with clients, using a client-centred approach and working with clients’ stigma were key to EIP staff experiences.

The second paper is an empirical study exploring the barriers and facilitators to peer support in EIP services. The study aimed to further understand the experiences of peer staff in EIP services by exploring the perceived barriers and facilitators to implementing peer support in these services. Eight participants with experience of delivering peer support in EIP services took part in semi-structured interviews. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. Two themes were developed: ‘Three approaches in one service’ and ‘Organisational culture and perceptions of peer support’. The main barriers and facilitators found were organisational approaches, team culture and perceptions of peer support. Challenges implementing peer support in EIP services can lead to peer support not being fully and appropriately utilised. Clinical implications highlight the importance of EIP teams understanding peer support and its value, and for peer support to be delivered in line with its defining principles.

The third paper is an executive summary of the empirical study in the second paper. It is aimed at staff, services and stakeholders involved in the implementation and delivery of peer support in EIP services.