< BACK

Evaluation of Liverpool peer to peer project 2008/2009
Simon Russell, Research Assistant, Centre for Public Health, Liverpool John Moores University

Abstract
The Peer to Peer (P2P) programme at Lighthouse Project (LHP) was adapted to provide a fresh focus on personal development and improving confidence to become a peer advocate, by extending contact with individuals from substance using communities and introducing specific discussion forums. The revised aims of achieving peer advocacy were supplemented with the original aims of challenging misinformation, increasing safer drug using practice and encouraging the dissemination of information among peers by use of relevant training modules.

Two independent groups attended six training modules and six discussion sessions over a total period of 30 weeks. Combined peer groups consisted of 26 individuals, 19 of whom had previously used heroin and three were currently using heroin. Baseline knowledge was measured via a quiz during the introductory session, which was repeated at the end of the project to assess changes in participant awareness. As previously found, evidence indicated that participant knowledge and confidence increased after training.

Peer groups indicated that the personal development sessions had built their confidence particularly in relation to getting to know others, working with agencies, expressing views and opinions in front of others and public speaking. Peers expressed that they had been presented with opportunities to use their acquired knowledge and felt comfortable acting as peer advocates. Peer groups identified prolonged contact with LHP as a positive aspect of the project and many participants expressed an interest in becoming involved with future programme's. 100% of participants indicated they were happy and confident about passing on knowledge, would recommend the P2P programme and that the sessions were clear and easy to understand.

This presentation will provide an overview of the changes in knowledge, with emphasis on the benefits and challenges of the focus on personal development. In addition, the future of the programme and areas for improvement will be discussed.

TOP

Biography
Simon Russell is a Research Assistant at the Centre for Public Health, Liverpool John Moores University. Simon started his career in research in 2007 as a student of Evolutionary Psychology. Since 2007, Simon has worked as a research assistant on various substance misuse projects in addition to conducting independent research. In his current role Simon is a member of the Project Management and Research team at Liverpool John Moores University and contributes to research and evaluation projects.