Aims: Peer support has relatively high uptake amongst men with prostate cancer, with men reporting that peer discussions provide information, emotional support, and reduce feelings of social isolation. However, the efficacy of group peer support as a method of psychosocial intervention is comparatively untested. We developed a multimodal supportive care intervention combining group peer support and self-management to target unmet supportive care needs and improve overall health in men with prostate cancer. This presentation describes the design and implementation of the peer support volunteer training program, and the challenges of using peer support within a research design.
Methods: Over twenty peer support volunteers underwent extensive training to support their role. Training included: group facilitation skills, group dynamics, coping with diagnosis and treatment side-effects of localised prostate cancer, working within a research protocol, role description and boundaries. The training aimed to assist peer support volunteers in creating a cohesive and constructive group environment for participants to share their experiences and reduce participant’s unmet supportive care needs.
Results: Important areas of consideration for the training included: identification of appropriate peers; challenges of peers in facilitating group discussion; and establishing an effective debriefing and supervision process.
Conclusions: Working with peer support volunteers is a valuable yet time-intensive process that requires ongoing monitoring. Peers often report some difficulties in adjusting to the challenges of group facilitation, and the flexibility of approach that this requires. To assist with the transition of peers into this unique research role, comprehensive training and providing regular opportunities for peers to meet and discuss these challenges is essential.