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Characteristics and impacts of community aphasia group facilitation: a systematic scoping review

Abstract Purpose Community aphasia groups (CAGs) can provide a range of benefits to people with aphasia and support long-term psychosocial wellbeing. However, the dominant speech-pathologist-led service delivery model is inherently limited in scope. Peer-led groups hold potential as a sustainable and empowering extension of this traditional model. The implementation of peer-led models likely requires targeted training and support, however little is known about the characteristics and impacts of CAG facilitation. This study reviews the literature on CAGs and their facilitation. Materials and methods We conducted a scoping review on this topic. Results One hundred and seventy-seven texts were included, reporting on a heterogeneous range of activities. Most texts reported on speech-pathologist-led groups, however, a range of alternative models were also represented. While no studies directly compared the impacts of different facilitation models, some comparative benefits could be drawn from the literature. Facilitation was perceived as complex and challenging, and significant gaps were identified in the training of facilitators. Ten qualitative studies investigated characteristics and impacts of facilitator behaviours, providing a useful foundation for future development of training and evaluation tools. Conclusions Further investigation into alternative facilitation models and facilitator training needs will likely support the proliferation of high-quality CAGs. Implications for Rehabilitation Community aphasia groups (CAGs) play an important role in supporting identity and wellbeing for individuals with chronic aphasia. The traditional speech-pathology led model of group service delivery is limited in scope; the addition of peer- and volunteer-led CAGs may facilitate access to groups and meet a range of different needs for individuals with aphasia. CAG facilitation is a complex and challenging task, likely requiring specialised training, however, this has not been widely available to facilitators. The development of specialised facilitator training will likely support the proliferation of sustainable and high-quality CAGs.