The Implementation and Effectiveness of a Peer Support Program for People Living with Brain Injury in British Columbia

Knowledge Gap: Brain injury can lead to lifelong health problems, with ongoing strain to health services. Peer support (mentorship between people with shared lived experience) can improve the long-term health of people with brain injury.

Research Description: This study will show how to implement a peer support program in BC and demonstrate the program’s impact on the health of people with brain injury. Peer support workers (n=30) and peer support receivers (n=60) with brain injury will be recruited. One-to-one peer support sessions will be held on Zoom. We will measure the implementation and effectiveness of the program.

KT Activities: I am partnering with clinicians and brain injury communities to co-develop the study. We will present our findings through activities including videos for social media, public events to spur discussion, and journal publications and conference presentations.

Anticipated Outcomes: The peer support program will be implemented across BC, and people with brain injury will experience improved health outcomes.

Research Impact: This study will provide evidence for using peer support for people with brain injury across the province, show its impact on health services, and drive its implementation.