What is peer support?
Peer support happens when experiences of challenge and hope are shared with the intention of creating trusting and learning relationships. Support is offered through building a recovery that is unique and meaningful.
Sharing our Lived Experience
We understand lived experience as a deeply personal and unique experience (of mental health challenges) which can lead to significant knowledge and insight. Sharing lived experience can strengthen understanding and produce a mutual type of support and expertise.
A peer supporter is trained in using their lived and learned experiences to support and empower others toward their own recovery process. Both group and 1:1 peer support can be complimentary to other types of support, availed of while awaiting residential/professional treatment, or as a standalone support. The frequency and duration of the support can be agreed upon individually.
We recognise that each person’s experience is unique to them and as such no one person is viewed as the expert. Peer support relationships aim to be mutual and equal in nature, offering non-directive emotional support and guidance in areas such as:
- Low mood or dysregulation
- Anxiety
- Substance misuse & cravings
- Loss/rebuilding of identity
- Feelings of worthlessness
- Disconnection
- Rebuilding relationships and reconnecting with your community
- Enhancing personal skills & strengths
- Providing psychoeducation
- Discovery/practice of skills, tools, resources
- Goal setting
- Identifying other forms of support/treatment available
- Service advocacy and navigation
The sessions usually last for approx. 60 mins