Kentucky First Responder Peer Support Team
None of Us Have to Struggle Alone
The Kentucky First Responder Peer Support (KYFRPS) Team is here when you need us. There are going to be times in our lives that are tough by virtue of what we experience as professionals and human beings. Strength is not shouldering another burden; rather, strength is in letting go and asking for help. KYFRPS is made up of first responder members just like you. If you need a peer to talk with and someone who can understand what you are experiencing because they have been there; we are here.
Who We Are
Kentucky First Responder Peer Support is defined as assistance provided by a trained individual or group of trained first responders who answer the call to their brothers and sisters in need, regardless of the need.
We are a multi-jurisdictional, multi-disciplinary first responder peer support team for the State of Kentucky. Founded by first responders, everything we do is driven by our understanding of first responders. We believe peer support is the foundation for mental and physical well-being in departments. We believe in being proactive in addressing mental health challenges in first responders by utilizing evidence-based practices and trauma-responsive techniques to train peer supporters located in departments and as part of our state peer support team. We partner with local, regional, and national trainers to create programs improving resilience, mental health, and overall wellness.
What We Do
Listen. Respond. Refer.
These are the actions we take when called upon by local first responders and their departments.
We answer requests from individuals or departments looking to understand resources, offer assistance after a critical incident, and everything in between.
Ideally, we want to help departments develop peer support before there is a crisis. Our peers work with departments to help them build a peer support team in their department that reflects the goals and vision of their department.
Every department has its own resources, goals, and understanding of peer support. We help departments achieve their vision of peer support. This is not one size fits all. Whether you are just beginning to develop your peer support team or have an established team looking for advanced training, we have the resources and connections to build and improve peer support.
For departments that do not have peer support, our statewide Peer Support Team members meet with individuals, small groups, and departments to provide emotional support during challenging times and/or times of crisis. When requested, our peer team members can meet with a first responder for a one-on-one meeting. We can send multiple first responders after a crisis within a department.
Peer Support Spotlight
Kentucky First Responder Response to LODD
LODD (Line of Duty Death) is the epitome of when Peer Support can be a vital part of a department’s reaction to the worst-case scenario of saying goodbye to one of our own. It is and will be a time for reflection and grief for those who knew the brother or sister we lost.