Peer support refers to initiatives where people meet as equals to
give each other support on a reciprocal basis. "Peer" means
that each person has no more expertise as a supporter than the other
and their relationship is one of equality. (Adapted from Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peer_support,
July 7, 2008)
Other terms commonly used to describe a group of individuals coming
together to share a common experience are self-help, mutual aid and
mutual benefit. There are many different interpretations of these
terms and they are often used interchangeably. At PeerNetBC,
we believe the term "peer support" as defined above best
describes our approach to working with groups.
A great diversity of peer support groups flourish in our communities.
Some focus on education and information, some on emotional support
and sharing; and still others focus on providing opportunities to
share experiences, socialize and form friendships. People join peer
support groups out of curiosity, out of desperation, or simply because
they know that finding support from others who have "been there"
is a powerful way to heal or come to terms with one's circumstances.
Ideally, a peer support group operates with all its members committed
to equal involvement and a shared responsibility for group tasks and
maintenance. Input from each person is valuable. There is a common
ground in sharing the same experience or concerns and, in this way,
everyone is the same.
There is a give and take attitude among group members. Each individual
has the opportunity to receive support but also to offer support to
others. People benefit just as much from helping as from receiving:
participation enhances confidence and self-esteem.
The knowledge and understanding people gain from experiencing something
is valuable and different from that gained from study or research.
The practical information and emotional insights gained from a shared
experience are both useful and comforting for group members.
"treat" an illness or a problem. However, peer support
often complements professional or other forms of therapy, treatment
or assistance that individuals may receive.
·
advise people how to solve their problems. Rather, peer support
gives individuals the opportunity to be self-determining in response
to their own life experiences. Each person is empowered to find
their own unique way forward.
·
take away the problem. Instead, members of peer support groups
share stories, strategies, activities and information.
·
help people who, for whatever reason, choose not to participate
or require more support than what group members can offer (i.e.
in times of crisis).
·
help everyone with every kind of problem. On the contrary, peer
support groups are successful when they assist people who share
a common experience or concern.
Groups vary in their form and activities. They may
be more social, involve field trips, offer educational experiences,
focus on talking or check-ins, or centre on community advocacy
or education.
·
Groups can have different leadership structures, operating by
consensus or by voting. There may be a leader or coordinator,
or leadership tasks may rotate.
·
Groups can be open or closed to new people. For example, some
groups run in set cycles (working through a 12 weeks curriculum,
for example) and thus accept new members only at the start of
each cycle.
·
Groups are free or involve a minimal contribution to help cover
basic costs.
·
Professionals may be involved in the start-up phase or to act
as resources or facilitators for the group.
