Young people's initiation into injecting drug use : the role of peer interviewers in risk reduction research

Issues addressed: This paper examines the role of peer interviewers and describes their application in a large action research project about young people's initiation into injecting drug use. The Initiates to Injecting (i2i) Project had a particular emphasis on hepatitis C. Methods: The rationale for using peer interviewers is reviewed and contrasted with traditional research methodologies, and the strengths and weaknesses of utilising peer interviewers in collecting data on sensitive issues from hidden population groups are also highlighted. The potential usefulness of action research as an educational strategy is described, particularly in relation to specific target groups and key public health issues such as hepatitis C. A case illustration is given, describing the process through which 14 peer interviewers conducted surveys and taped interviews with young injecting drug-users. These peer interviewers also acted as risk reduction and key information transfer agents and facilitated further project development. Results: A five stage study utilising peer interviewers was successful in completing 102 interviews and 43 taped interviews. In addition, the peer interviewers facilitated four focus groups and 20 resource development workshops and provided important insights into the development of hepatitis C education resources for young people new to injecting drug use. The peer interviewers were well received by respondents and acted as effective risk reduction agents in relation to hepatitis C and safe injecting drug use. Conclusion. Peer interviewers engaged in research processes can provide a sound and effective means by which to access hidden population groups, such as young people new to injecting drug use. In the i2i Project, the peer interviewers were an efficient means by which to collect data that may otherwise have been inaccessible. They were also in a unique position to respond to opportunities for providing risk reduction information in relation to safe injecting drug use and hepatitis C. So what? Alternative research methods and action research approaches offer expanded opportunities for intervening in complex and difficult areas such as drug injection by young people and hepatitis C prevention. The use of methods such as peer interviewers can facilitate the data collection process and any subsequent peer education activities, particularly in settings where there is only a small operating budget.