Supporting Harm Reduction through Peer Support (SHARPS): testing the feasibility and acceptability of a peer-delivered, relational intervention for people with problem substance use who are homeless, to improve health outcomes, quality of life and social functioning and reduce harms: study protocol
Date
2019
Authors
Parkes, Tessa
Matheson, Catriona
Carver, Hannah
Budd, John
Liddell, Dave
Wallace, Jason
Pauly, Bernie
Fotopoulou, Maria
Burley, Adam
Anderson, Isobel
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Pilot and Feasibility Studies
Abstract
Background
While people who are homeless often experience poor mental and physical health and problem substance use, getting access to appropriate services can be challenging. The development of trusting relationships with non-judgemental staff can facilitate initial and sustained engagement with health and wider support services. Peer-delivered approaches seem to have particular promise, but there is limited evidence regarding peer interventions that are both acceptable to, and effective for, people who are homeless and using drugs and/or alcohol. In the proposed study, we will develop and test the use of a peer-to-peer relational intervention with people experiencing homelessness. Drawing on the concept of psychologically informed environments, it will focus on building trusting and supportive relationships and providing practical elements of support such as access to primary care, treatment and housing options.
Description
Keywords
Harm reduction, Substance use, Peer Navigators, Homelessness, Feasibility trial, Intervention
Citation
Parkes, T., Matheson, C., Carver, H., Budd, J., Liddell, D., Wallace, J., … Foster, R. (2019). Supporting Harm Reduction through Peer Support (SHARPS): testing the feasibility and acceptability of a peer-delivered, relational intervention for people with problem substance use who are homeless, to improve health outcomes, quality of life and social functioning and reduce harms: study protocol. Pilot and Feasibility Studies, 5(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40814-019-0447-0