Employees are the police department's most valuable resource. The Peer Support Program is designed to help them continue as productive members of the department and community. Our department recognizes the value of providing additional support and resources for employees in a less formal way. One highly successful approach is through non-professional peer support in addition to services provided by the Counseling Unit. The Peer Support Program is a group of employees who have been nominated by their peers and approved by their chain of command. Initially, peer supporters attend an extended training. The major emphasis is on policy, procedures, and skill development for conducting peer assistance efforts. Follow-up training and workshops are scheduled periodically to enhance problem solving skills, provide group sharing, and allow an exchange of experiences. The success of the Peer Support Program is determined, in part, by the observance of confidentiality. It is imperative that each peer supporter maintain strict confidentiality within the guidelines of this program and the laws of Tennessee.
The Metro Nashville Police Department adheres to the Peer Support Guidelines of the International Association of Chiefs of Police.
