Hello, I am Edelweiss Aldasoro. I am one of the Editor-in-Chiefs on the International Journal of Integrated Care (IJIC). I am joined by Stacey Grealis, one of the editors of the journal's editorial board, and a representative of people with lived experience.
For this period, we have picked up the following article, which we would like to invite you to read.
Isabel, M., Turgeon, D., Lessard, É., Panaite, A.-C., Ballu, G., Desroches, O.-A., Rouly, G. and Boivin, A. (2025) ‘From Disruption to Reconstruction: Implementing Peer Support in Homelessness During Times of Crisis for Health and Social Care Services’, <i>International Journal of Integrated Care</i>, 25(1), p. 1. Available at: https://doi.org/10.5334/ijic.8594.
1. Why have we chosen this article?
Stacey: We chose this article because it presents a participatory research study on implementing peer support for homeless people in a primary care clinic in Montreal during the COVID-19 pandemic. Peer support workers—people with lived experience of social or health conditions—have been integrated into various clinical settings, but most studies have overlooked how such initiatives work during crises. This case study offers insight into how peer support was introduced, sustained, and integrated, particularly during a time of crisis, making it a relevant and timely example.
Edelweiss: I agree with Stacey. This paper has many elements that make it worth reading, and the combination of these elements makes it quite unique. First, it is focused on a homeless population; second, it integrates peer support intervention in primary and community care settings; third, it presents a participatory research programme; fourth, the publication is not part of an implementation-oriented research but a reflection after responding to a community and people’s needs; and finally, it uses a narrative case study approach, ensuring that the collective experiences and knowledge were included in the learning process.
2. Why is it important for integrated care?
Edelweiss: This article shows how, even in challenging conditions, some existing barriers can be overcome. The research team provided leadership throughout the process and brought together a team with diverse backgrounds. The clinical team contributed years of experience in community care. Relationship-building was nurtured by actively listening and engaging with all partners involved. Preparatory steps included open discussions around information sharing and boundaries, role definitions and participation—all of which supported a strong foundation for collaboration. What would you say about the peer support approach, Stacey?
Stacey: The article is important for integrated care because it highlights how peer support workers can become recognised in clinical teams. It shows the value of experiential knowledge and emphasises collaboration between clinical, community, and research teams. The initiative underlines that successful integration requires relationship-building, mentorship, and trust. Furthermore, it demonstrates the need for coordination across all sectors and how research teams can support innovation when clinical teams are under strain.
3. What can we learn from it?
Stacey: We can learn that crises, like the COVID-19 pandemic, can serve as catalysts for innovation in care. The article outlines that:
- Even during challenging times, peer support initiatives can be successfully implemented.
- Success depends on following essential implementation steps.
- Research teams can play a crucial role in supporting clinical innovation.
- Building partnerships and securing sustainable resources are key to long-term success.
- Many pilot projects risk not being funded or scaled up, which is an important consideration for future initiatives.
Edelweiss: Yes, and one of the key elements that is highlighted in this paper, and we have seen it in many other successful stories, is the importance of investing the necessary time to understand the needs, build relationships and adapt the approaches to the context and people. Change management is a complex process that requires time, and I quote the authors:
“numerous benefits can be gained from resisting the urge to implement an action at all costs and from forcing a team to slow down while offering pragmatic solutions in real time”.
4. What is your final reflection?
Stacey: This article reminds us that innovation often arises out of necessity. The project demonstrates the power of lived experience in health and social care. Personally, it reinforces the belief that crises should not only be seen as disruptions but also as opportunities to reimagine care systems. It also emphasizes the importance of perseverance, collaboration, and the need to advocate for the sustainability of promising pilot programs.
Edelweiss: This is a very well-written manuscript explaining a real implementation process during a crisis period. The challenges and strengths are clearly described, and the reader truly benefits from learning through a real-life story. I invite you all to read it and reflect on what lessons can be applied within your own context.
Dr Edelweiss Aldasoro
International Foundation for Integrated Care (IFIC)
Stacey Grealis
The Centre for Arthritis Research in UCD, a leader in citizens science and a member of the editorial board of the International Journal of Integrated Care