Structured, time-limited peer mentorship activity programmes for individuals with acquired brain or spinal cord injuries: a mixed methods systematic review of characteristics and outcomes

Abstract Purpose To determine the characteristics and outcomes of structured, time-limited peer mentorship activity programmes for individuals with acquired brain or spinal cord injury. Materials and methods A mixed methods systematic review with an advanced convergent qualitative meta-integration synthesis design was adopted. Seven databases were searched, with two reviewers independently screening, selecting, and extracting data and evaluating the methodological quality of the included studies. Results The review included ten original studies: five qualitative, four quantitative, and one mixed methods. The peer mentorship programmes were conducted in Europe, Oceania, the United States, and Africa, lasting from two days to 2.5 weeks. The programmes had diverse focuses, but all addressed mentees’ independence, health, or quality of life in some way. None was based on a theoretical framework. Programme participation positively impacted cognition, emotions, independence, and social life. The safe and supportive environments the mentees and peer mentors created facilitated the outcomes. The evidence of programme participation on life satisfaction and community participation was inconclusive. Conclusion Despite their short duration, structured, time-limited peer mentorship activity programmes can strengthen community rehabilitation of individuals with acquired brain or spinal cord injury. It is recommended that peer mentorship programmes are grounded on a theoretical framework. Implication for Rehabilitation Structured, time-limited peer mentorship activity programmes impact mentees’ thoughts and emotions, social lives, and independence in daily lives. Being able to challenge oneself in a safe and supportive environment created by mentees and peer mentors is essential for achieving positive outcomes. Peer mentorship programme organisers should establish clearly defined programme aims and base their rationale on how to reach these aims on relevant theoretical frameworks.