Barriers and facilitators to the implementation of peer support programs among public safety personnel: a scoping review

While peer support programs have gained popularity as tools to mitigate stress among public safety personnel, there is a gap in research exploring the factors that contribute to the success of these programs. This scoping review synthesizes findings from international research on peer support programs for public safety personnel, using the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Thirty-six documents met the eligibility criteria for this review. The results highlight ten themes describing the main barriers and facilitators to the implementation of peer support programs. These include concerns regarding the culture surrounding mental health, confidentiality, role delimitation, clarity of the program's mission, tangible endorsement by administrators and stakeholders, selection, training and supervision of peer supporters, delivery format, and higher-level governance. By outlining the frequently stated components that may foster or hinder peer support programs, this study provides public safety organizations with insight regarding program design and policy making.