Understanding Relationships in Peer Support
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Understanding Relationships in Peer Support in Community Mental Health Settings
IRAS ID
250520
Contact name
Teila Clift
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Huddersfield
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
N/A, N/A
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 6 months, 30 days
Research summary
Mead (2003) proposed the most widely used definition of peer support in mental health which states; peer support is “a system of giving and receiving help founded on key principles of respect, shared responsibility, and mutual agreement of what is helpful” (Mead, 2003, p.1). The majority of research around the effects of peer support shows it can be an effective alternative to traditional mental health services, although there is mixed evidence for its efficacy. There has been little research on what makes a good peer relationship. More mental health organisations are recommending peer support workers (PSW) in traditional services, so it is important that we understand the role of the relationship between the PSW and the peer client (PC) and how they are effective. This study will use a phenomenological approach with 1-1 interviews to find out what makes a good peer support relationship. Results will be a product of Thematic Analysis, and will shed light on the characteristics of what makes these relationships develop and how they can be improved. This will help mental health organisations in recruitment, PSW training and improve client care.
REC name
London - Camberwell St Giles Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
21/LO/0884
Date of REC Opinion
4 Jan 2022
REC opinion
Unfavourable Opinion