Services

North Carolina First Responder Peer Support is defined as assistance provided by a trained individual or group of trained firefighters and emergency responders who answer the call to their brothers and sisters in need, regardless of the need.

Boundaries of Operation:

The North Carolina First Responder Peer Support Team follows the guidelines of the law and the professional regulations within the service.  NCPS is assisted by licensed mental health professionals who also follow the guidelines of the law and the regulations within their professional licensure.

Training Statement & Guidelines:

The North Carolina First Responder Peer Support Team members will complete a 2 day training on the practice and technique of first responder peer support.  There are continuing education requirements for first responders to maintain their peer support status.  A licensed psychology professional is available to guide and supervise trainings and services.  Peer support is not a professional service regulated by the State of North Carolina; and therefore Peer Support does not try to claim to be or practice as any such regulated service (i.e. mental/physical health).  It is not a substitute for specialized services –but may act as the liaison between peers and needed professionals in complex cases.

Program Evaluation:

The North Carolina First Responder Peer Support Team measures: 1) the number of those seeking peer support, 2) the presenting issue, 3) the referral source and if the peer followed through with an initial appointment, 4) satisfaction with the peer support and with service if referred, and 5) overall comfort/satisfaction with peer support presence in the first responder community.​