Peer support is one element of a comprehensive family support program. Other elements should include: An institutional and administrative champion for peer and family support;
A facilitator/coordinator who could be: A hospital employee (psychologist, social worker, nurse, pastoral care, physician),
A trained parent and/or family support specialist,
A former NICU parent or volunteer from one of the many non-profit peer-to-peer parent support organizations across the country;
A menu of types of support available (individual and/or group in-person support, email, phone and online support);
Parent education classes and written materials, as well as social activities;
Staff education to promote understanding of NICU families' psychosocial needs, family-centered care practices and methods of communicating and providing support (see ‘Recommendations for enhancing psychosocial support of NICU parents through staff education and support', this issue).