1. Needs Assessment and Program Design A. Conduct an assessment of the current needs and mental health challenges of the target population employed by the NDOC (e.g. first responders, healthcare workers, etc.). B. Identify key stakeholders to be involved in the program’s design and delivery of services (e.g., supervisors, HR, wellness coordinators). C. Develop a tailored peer support program that incorporates the ICISF curriculum and aligns with the specific needs of the NDOC. D. Define clear roles and responsibilities for peer supporters who receive training to provide support to other members of the NDOC. 2. Curriculum Customization and Content Development A. Customize the ICISF curriculum to suit the specific needs of the NDOC and the target audience. B. Develop training materials, manuals, handouts, and presentations to support the curriculum, which will become the property of the NDOC. C. Ensure that the curriculum addresses: 1. The psychological impact of critical incidents on NDOC employees. 2. Identifies peer support strategies for de-escalation and stress management for NDOC employees. 3. Produces techniques for promoting resilience and well-being for all employees of the NDOC. 4. Supports confidentiality, identifies boundaries, and established ethical guidelines for peer supporters to follow when providing services. 3. Delivery of Training A. Plan and conduct peer support training sessions for designated staff members of peer supporters, including dissemination of tr4aining materials, manuals, handouts, and presentations to support the curriculum. B. The training should cover all core elements of the ICISF curriculum, including: 1. Crisis intervention techniques (e.g., Psychological First Aid). 2. Stress management strategies for peer supporters. 3. Effective communication and listening skills for supporting peers. 4. Identifying signs of distress and appropriate referrals for professional care. 5. Self-care and management secondary trauma for peer supporters. C. Provide an interactive training environment that encourages role-play, case studies, and group discussions. 4. Implementation and Launch A. Coordinate the launch of the Peer Support Program for the NDOC. B. Support the NDOC in creating a structure for ongoing peer support, including communication channels and support networks. C. Develop a system for tracking and reporting the progress of individuals receiving support through the program with complete confidentiality. D. Promote the program to NDOC staff, ensuring clear understanding of its availability and goals. 5. Ongoing Support and Evaluation A. Provide follow-up support for peer supporters to ensure the program’s success. B. Facilitate regular check-ins or supervisory sessions for peer supporters to ensure their well-being and effectiveness. C. Develop an evaluation plan to assess the program’s impact on participants, including surveys and feedback mechanisms. D. Adjust and refine the program as needed based on feedback and evaluation data, to support the overall goal of effectively supporting the mental health needs of NDOC employees.
