How to Build a Peer Support Team in a Small Department episode artwork

EPISODE · Jan 15, 2026 · 20 MIN

How to Build a Peer Support Team in a Small Department

from Surviving Your Shift, Building Responder Wellness

Learn how to build a peer support team in a small department, with practical tips for rural first responders, fire, EMS, and police. Discover right-sized peer support looks like.What do you say when you hear, “We’re too small for peer support”?Many small departments struggle with the same question: “How can we start peer support when we’re already short on people and time?”In this episode, we dive into how to build a peer support team in a small department, making it realistic and practical for rural first responders, fire, EMS, and police.BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:What “right-sized” peer support looks like in a 20–50 person departmentHow to pick the first 2–3 people for your teamSimple policies you actually need for a small departmentHow to partner with nearby agencies, chaplains, or EAP to extend your reachWhat to do in the first 90 days to ensure team effectiveness and longevityUse this episode with your peer support team, leadership, or at your next shift meeting to start or improve peer support in your small department. Share it with other small agencies struggling with the same question.Share this episodehttps://www.survivingyourshift.com/53Connect with BartEmail: [email protected]: linkedin.com/in/bartlegerFacebook Page: facebook.com/survivingyourshiftWebsite: www.survivingyourshift.comWant to find out how I can help you build a peer support program in your organization or provide training? Schedule a no-obligation call or Zoom meeting with me here.

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