Research study of first responder mental health programs shows evidence of positive change, social value
Click to download a copy of the report.
Movember-funded study of resiliency program for fire fighters and police officers show measurable benefits to participants, social return on investment
The study, initially funded in 2021 and led by Movember research partner University of Canberra looked at program evaluations collected from Blueprint First Responder Program participants over two years. Upon completion of the the research, University of Canberra publishing the results of their study, showing the program’s impact on a number of mental health and social functioning measures.
The study revealed the program had positive impact on participants, including reduction of trauma-related stress, depression, and anxiety, and improvements to quality of life, social supports, and resilience.
“From our clinical experience working with members of the military and first responders, and from talking with our fire and police partners, we know the program works, but we couldn’t prove it,” said Duncan Shields, co-founder and Senior Vice President of Blueprint. “Now we have evidence that can be shared and used as a catalyst for further investment in and expansion of the program.”
“This report should be read by any government seeking to support reduction in first responder health costs, and to reduce the social harms and impacts of first responder trauma.”
Highlights from the report include:
There is evidence of significant change and effectiveness of the program for participants, helping them to lower their symptoms of trauma related stress, improve their mental health (depression and anxiety) and overall quality of life, expand their social support, and build resilience; these mental health and well-being gains are sustained for at least 6 months following program participation; and
The Blueprint First Responder Resiliency Program provides substantial social value relative to the investment made by the Movember funding, at $5.48 USD for every $1 Movember invested, demonstrating a high positive social value relative to the investment; the social value relative to cost remains high even once additional in-kind and operational costs are considered;
The program’s leadership demonstrates strong capability in managing the inherent complexities of the demand for such educational content
Ratings and comments from FRRP participants emphasizes their positive perceptions of usefulness of the program to them.
The report, entitled First Responder Resiliency Program Evaluation Report: Movember and the Distinguished Gentlemen’s Ride Veterans and First Responder Mental Health Grant Program*, is available for download here.
ABOUT MOVEMBER
Movember is the leading charity changing the face of men's health on a global scale, focusing on mental health and suicide prevention, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer. The charity raises funds to deliver innovative, breakthrough research and support programmes that enable men to live happier, healthier and longer lives. Committed to disrupting the status quo, millions have joined the movement, helping fund over 1,250 projects around the world. In addition to tackling key health issues faced by men, Movember is working to encourage men to stay healthy in all areas of their life, with a focus on men staying socially connected and becoming more open to discussing their health and significant moments in their lives. The charity's vision is to have an everlasting impact on the face of men's health. Website: Movember.com.
ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF CANBERRA
University of Canberra is a university for the professions, dedicated to providing immersive student experiences focussed on employability outcomes. In 2023, more than 17,500 students (11,700+ in undergraduate & 5900+ in postgraduate) from across Australia and 100 countries study in our diverse community and vibrant campus. We combine progressive teaching and learning with strong ties to industry, to give students a taste of their future careers. Our courses blend theoretical knowledge, industry needs, work-readiness and practical learning to ensure our graduates are equipped with the skills employers demand. UC is devoted to innovation and collaborative, high quality research that makes a significant difference to the world. Website: canberra.edu.au.
ABOUT BLUEPRINT
Blueprint is a Canadian nonprofit organization founded by clinicians and academic researchers, and affiliated with University of British Columbia’s Department of Family Practice, focusing on fostering men’s well-being and helping men become healthy, contributing members of families and communities. We apply leading-edge research to develop evidence-based programs, education and training models to transform masculine norms, to reduce negative health outcomes like violence, substance use, disease and illness, and to inform policy and support systems change designed to reduce harmful behaviours.
* Sue Lukersmith, Luis Savador-Carulla, Cindy Woods, Theo Niyonsenga, Mencia Ruiz Gutierrez Colosia, Itismita Mohanty, Diego Diaz Milanes, Carlos Garcia Alonso (2024). The evaluation and impact analysis report of First Responder Resiliency Program by the University of Canberra evaluation team.
