An umbrella review of systematic reviews of peer support work in criminal justice settings

Purpose This umbrella review of systematic reviews aims to evaluate the effectiveness of peer support work (PSW) in criminal justice settings. It will examine its impact on service users and peer workers and identify factors influencing the implementation of PSW programmes. Given the complex needs of justice-involved individuals, this review explores how PSW may address these needs while supporting desistance, rehabilitation and health-related outcomes. Design/methodology/approach The review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, synthesising evidence from systematic reviews published in peer-reviewed literature. A total of (N = 11,361) articles were identified during the search strategy, of which (n = 5) systematic reviews meeting the inclusion criteria were critically appraised using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist. Findings were analysed through narrative synthesis. Findings The findings demonstrated positive outcomes for service users, including reduced risky behaviours, improved mental health, enhanced self-esteem and better engagement with health and social care services, with little evidence of re-offending. Peer workers themselves benefited from increased confidence, skill development and financial capital, which reinforced their own desistance journeys. However, this review also highlighted gaps in training and the specificity of intervention protocols. Implementation barriers, such as stigma, staff resistance and risk averse prison environments, were identified, alongside facilitators like organisational support, structured training and stakeholder collaboration. Practical implications Peer workers themselves benefited from increased confidence, skill development and financial capital, which reinforced their own desistance journeys. Originality/value To the best of the author’s knowledge, this review is among the first to comprehensively examine PSW in criminal justice settings through a synthesis of systematic reviews. The review highlights the dual benefits of PSW for both justice-involved individuals and peer workers, while offering practical insights into addressing implementation challenges. This study underscores the potential of PSW as a complementary approach to existing rehabilitation and public health interventions in criminal justice contexts.