Student Placement: The 4C’s: A rapid review of peer-based support approaches during early post-injury adjustment for adults with spinal cord and traumatic brain injuries

Honours in Psychology students: Laura Read and Casey Williams

Supervisors: Prof. Tamara Ownsworth & Dr Emily Bray

Laura and Casey were involved in a 6-week work integrated learning placement as part of their honours program. The objectives were to conduct a rapid literature review of peer-based programs during early post-injury adjustment for people with spinal cord (SCI) or traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Peers referred to individuals with lived experience of SCI or TBI who provided knowledge, expertise or support to assist the adjustment of someone with more recently acquired SCI or TBI. Based on 14 studies spanning the SCI and TBI literature, the “4 Cs model” was developed to reflect the varying levels of involvement of peers in the design and implementation of support programs, either run in hospital or the community.

Most studies reflected the coordinate (n = 3), co-facilitate (n = 7), and collaborate (n = 4) approaches. Peer involvement generally entailed facilitation rather than program design. No published studies reflected the construct approach whereby peers are largely responsible for designing and implementing programs. This may be due to feasibility issues in planning, organising and funding programs outside of formal services. Support for peers was considered essential because this role can carry a heavy an emotional load. Overall, the review highlighted the need for increased involvement of peers in the initial design of interventions and mechanisms to support peers’ own well-being.