Supporting peer support workers: a qualitative meta-synthesis of influences on peer support worker wellbeing and a reflexive thematic analysis of experiences of peer-to peer supervision

Garbutt, Alice (Alie) 2026. Supporting peer support workers: a qualitative meta-synthesis of influences on peer support worker wellbeing and a reflexive thematic analysis of experiences of peer-to peer supervision. ClinPsy Thesis, Cardiff University. Item availability restricted.

	PDF (DClinPsy) - Accepted Post-Print Version Restricted to Repository staff only until 27 July 2027 due to copyright restrictions. Download (4MB) | Request a copy
	PDF (Cardiff University Electronic Publication Form) - Supplemental Material Restricted to Repository staff only Download (1MB) | Request a copy

Abstract

Abstract Objectives This systematic review aims to synthesise qualitative research exploring the impact of working as a peer support worker (PSW) on PSW wellbeing. Methods The databases CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, PsycInfo, Scopus, and ProQuest Dissertations & Theses were searched in December 2025 and April 2026. Search terminology included terms related to ‘peer support work’, ‘wellbeing’, and ‘qualitative research’. The quality of studies was assessed using the CASP Qualitative Studies Checklist. Findings were synthesised using thematic synthesis. Results Forty studies were included of generally high quality. This large number of studies demonstrates the interest in this topic. Synthesis identified themes that influence the wellbeing of PSWs in positive and negative ways. Themes relating to the nature of peer support work included ongoing disclosure of mental health difficulties, triggering experiences, and being in a support role. Themes relating to the context of peer support work included stigma, clarity of the role, and organisational support. Conclusions PSW wellbeing is shaped by the interaction between the emotionally demanding and relational nature of peer support work and the organisational contexts in which PSWs are employed. Despite encountering triggering experiences and challenges associated with disclosing lived experience, being in a support role can benefit wellbeing in contexts where PSWs feel supported and their role is understood. However, PSW wellbeing may be negatively affected where stigma, poor role clarity, and inadequate organisational support are present. Practitioner Points • Organisations should develop workplace cultures that address stigma surrounding mental health. This is best achieved when leaders actively endorse peer support roles, role clarity is high, and PSWs are integrated through training, supervision, and structural support. • Increasing senior leadership positions for PSWs may help strengthen role clarity, improve organisational understanding of peer support, and provide more tailored supervision and advocacy for PSWs. • Training and supervision for PSWs should include explicit opportunities to reflect on disclosure and emotional wellbeing. Role-specific supervision provided by senior PSWs may be particularly well suited for this. • Services should tailor support to the individual in terms of working patterns and flexible working arrangements. PSWs should be supported to take sick leave if they need it, with consideration given to concerns they may have regarding how this is perceived within their team.

Item Type:	Thesis (DClinPsy)
Date Type:	Completion
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Schools > Psychology
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Peer support, systematic review, qualitative research, thematic synthesis, peer support worker wellbeing, mental health services
Funders:	N/A
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	27 July 2026
Last Modified:	27 Jul 2026 14:20
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/188453

Actions (repository staff only)

Edit Item