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Objectives
The proposed project sets out to create a virtual resource centre of best practice peer support activities, methods and training programmes. A key purpose of this resource centre is to provide the opportunity and resources to develop and share experiences of peer support activities across EU countries.
The project has three key aims. These are to:
Our primary goal is to create a dynamic and extensive virtual library. This library will serve as a centralized hub for all things related to peer support in mental health. It will be a treasure trove of information, hosting an array of resources, research papers, case studies, articles, and other relevant materials. Our intention is to provide individuals with easy access to knowledge and guidance on various aspects of peer support in mental health.
We firmly believe in the power of shared knowledge. Through our resource center, we will actively identify and disseminate best practice examples of peer support activities, approaches, methods, and training programs. By showcasing successful and established initiatives, we hope to inspire and encourage others to adopt similar effective strategies in their own mental health support endeavors.
To further enhance the impact of our project, we aim to bring together peer support workers, mental health professionals, and other stakeholders. Collaboration is key to progress, and we intend to facilitate virtual workshops, as well as engaging webinars that will serve as platforms for individuals to connect, share experiences, and collectively develop existing practices to enrich the field of mental health peer support.
About the project
Bridging the Gap through Peer Support
In light of the recent COVID-19 pandemic and the prevailing cost of living crisis, many EU countries have witnessed a concerning surge in stress, anxiety, and depression among their populations. The higher prevalence of mental health issues is further compounded by overwhelming demands placed on limited mental health services, leading to prolonged waiting times for access.
At this critical juncture, the need to support those experiencing mental health challenges has reached unprecedented levels. Our project aims to address this pressing issue by focusing on safe and effective ways to offer much-needed support. We firmly believe that expanding and developing peer support initiatives can play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between patients and mental health professionals.
We recognize the potential of peer support as a powerful tool for healing and recovery. Peer support involves creating networks of individuals who have experienced similar mental health challenges and are now in a position to offer empathetic and understanding support to others facing similar issues.
Our project is committed to expanding and developing these peer support networks, creating a supportive community where individuals can freely share their experiences, seek guidance, and receive encouragement from those who have been through similar challenges.
Glossary
Peer support
When people use their own experiences to help each other.
Support groups
Gatherings of people who share common experiences, situations, problems or conditions.
One-on-one individual support
Peer support is provided through one-on-one basis.
Telephone-based peer support
This type of peer support is provided through regular phone calls.
Web- and email-based support
These programs use the Internet to mobilize peer support.
Professional-led group visits with peer exchange
In this model, patients who share the same condition are brought together with a health care provider or team of providers.
One-to-family, or family-to-family support
Peer support may need to be provided to the family of a participant in order to facilitate behavioral change.
New
Virtual library coming soon
We’re excited to announce that our virtual library is coming soon. We hope the resources and information about peer support will make it easy for you to find what you need, whether it’s peer support training, activities in your country/region, meeting other peer supporters, or getting involved by sharing your experiences and stories. We hope to include lots of resources such as:
Let us know what you’re up to!
Get in touch
Our team would love to hear from you.
