THE PEER SUPPORT & PORTFOLIO PROJECT

The Peer Support Project links up one member of Beside with another for a specific period of say, 3-6 months. The two members meet for a chat once a week or once a fortnight. People can choose to meet with someone who has similar mental health concerns or different ones.

FAQs - frequently asked questions

How do you get started?

The first thing is to mention that you would like peer support when you join Beside. Existing members should contact the Peer Support Project Co-ordinator at Beside. We will ask you to fill out a short Hobbies and Interest Questionnaire in order to match you up with a Peer Support Volunteer who has similar interests.

Who is a Peer Support Volunteer?

A Peer Support Volunteer is an existing Beside member who is does at least three days training a year in Peer Support. They will also have scheduled supervision with the Project Worker.

What next?

The Project Worker meets with both you and the Peer Support Volunteer who is matched with you, to make the introductions, and clarify when and where the meetings will take place. She will tell you the ground rules of the meetings.

Where do the meetings take place?

The first 4-5 meetings must take place in Beside in our Group Room at times and dates you both agree. After that people may choose to meet in a café or other public space. You can keep a scrap book or photodiary to record changes in your life since you started the project – do you socialise more, have you joined any other groups at Beside.

Is there a waiting list?

There might be, but the more people who sign up to the project, the more matches we can make. So what are you waiting for!

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