Family and youth peer support (FYPS) is an essential component in serving youth and families through a Care Management Entity (CME) approach. FYPS providers, as well as families and youth receiving peer support, stress that these services are a critical enhancement to formal services to promote the health and well being of children and families.

Though evidence of their effectiveness is still emerging, the existing research suggests positive outcomes for those receiving FYPS. The literature also emphasizes the need for more in-depth research on this topic to develop a more substantial evidence base. This review summarizes much of the existing research on FYPS, focusing predominantly on the literature relevant to peer support for children and youth with significant mental health and/or physical health challenges. It was developed as a resource to support states in strengthening their CME approach through the development and implementation of FYPS across child and adolescent serving systems.