First Step Support Literature Review – Peer Work in Primary Health Settings

Recently, CoMHWA commissioned a literature review from Aimee Sinclair, Lived Experience PhD Candidate and Researcher at Curtin University, to explore the current evidence and potential value of embedding mental health consumer peer workers in primary health settings, specifically in General Practice (GP) clinics.

CoMHWA has long advocated for the integration of lived experience in all parts of the mental health system, and recently we’ve started to consider ways in which peer workers could support someone at the point where many people first enter the mental health system: through their GPs.

Some people are fortunate to have a compassionate, knowledgeable GP who has the time and capacity to listen and provide meaningful support, but many still leave their GP feeling dismissed, misunderstood or unheard. We believe peer workers have the potential to bridge this gap.

CoMHWA commissioned a literature review to ask: what models already exist for peer workers in primary care, and what makes them work? Internationally, peer workers are being trialled in GP settings with promising results. These roles don’t just support individuals – they also improve the knowledge and capacity of GPs by introducing insights beyond the medical model, including awareness of social determinants and alternatives to clinical support.

We are keenly aware that installing a peer worker into a clinic isn’t enough to make change. For this approach to work well and remain aligned with peer values, it must be designed thoughtfully – with organisational readiness, clear roles, adequate training, strong relationships, and shared understanding between peers and clinicians.

This work is part of a broader goal to transform mental health support in primary health settings – not just improving the status quo, but creating something new, collaborative and grounded in lived experience.