Peer-led Seeking Safety

About the project

The inclusion of peer workers in mental health service delivery can help people feel understood, reduce stigma, and build trust in mental health services. Evidence also suggests a peer workforce strengthens recovery-oriented care by offering practical insight and support that complements clinical expertise. This model is becoming increasingly popular as recovery-oriented practice expands, the peer workforce grows across Australia, and services look for more effective, scalable, and person-centred approaches to care.

DVA commissioned Gallipoli Medical Research to conduct a formative evaluation of the translation and implementation of the U.S. based Seeking Safety practice model within Open Arms. The project involved the cross cultural adaption of the Peer-Led Seeking Safety model to the Australia military context and a program of training. The group format intervention was delivered as a pilot program within two Open Arms regions involving veteran clients, Open Arms clinicians and lived experience peers to assess cultural fit, organisational relevance and acceptability for the Australian veteran population.  

The report was completed in 2025: