Training peer support workers inside a high-security prison

The pilot grew out of an idea from World Overdose Day in 2022. In spring 2024, five inmates completed an eight-week introductory course developed by staff at Ullersmo together with NAV in prison, with support from KBT Vocational College. Six inmates have since started the full peer support worker programme.

Much of the education is normally delivered digitally, which is difficult in a high-security setting: internet access is restricted, and teachers cannot bring a laptop or phone through security. Presentations are sent in advance and printed material is used instead, while guidance sessions that would usually be online are delivered in person.

As a vocational programme, the education is 50 per cent practice, and a placement period is 270 hours. Inside the prison, the team had to think differently about what can count as practice — for example giving presentations to fellow inmates.

Students in prison also remain in the same environment around the clock, which makes it demanding to separate roles. Awareness of role conflicts and boundaries is therefore built into the follow-up.