The project implemented a pilot peer support program called SOAR (Survivors Offering Assistance in Recovery a) within the Professor Stuart Pegg Adult Burns Centre at Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital (RBWH). SOAR is a well-established peer supportive initiative, connecting Burns survivors with patients and families for 1:1 support.

There is limited psychosocial support in the Burns inpatient and nil psychosocial support in outpatient environments. The SOAR program bridges this gap by leveraging peer support's positive impact. By connecting trained survivors with current patients and families, SOAR not only addresses immediate emotional needs but also envisions long-term psychological improvement, leading to a more comprehensive and holistic care within the RBWH Burns Unit.

Dr Lynne Heye's team has successfully set up the program and training has been provided to staff to act as coordinators. Five burn survivors were also trained and recruited to be 1:1 peer supporters. SOAR is now in the up taking phase, in which Burns Unit staff are engaging with patients to encourage them to take part. The expected outcomes of this project are twofold. Firstly, it will enhance the psychosocial support available to burn survivors, improving their long-term well-being. Secondly, it will result in better overall patient outcomes within our department by providing a more holistic approach to care.