Vikki, Peer Hub
3 Aug 2021
Visioning for Peer Support Services with Avon and Wiltshire NHS Trust
The Covid-19 pandemic has radically changed many people's working lives. Since March 2020, I've been working almost exclusively from home. So, taking the long trip from Durham to Bath in Somerset felt a bit overwhelming - but I'm so pleased I did!
On 30th July 2021 I was honoured to facilitate a peer support launch and visioning event for Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust. It was great to have time with leaders and colleagues committed to the development of peer support in the Trust. Protected time for the conversations that matter when it comes to peer support is so important in developing peer support programmes.
Being able to think together with peer leadership and colleagues with influence about what peer support is, what peer supporters need to be able to deliver in their roles, and having shared aspirations for a peer support workforce can really make a difference when establishing a professional peer support programme. It was particularly good to see the Trust's Chief Executive, Dominic Hardisty, come to open the event to show his commitment to his peer support workforce.
What shone through in the event is how connected we all were to the reasons we work in this field, and how possibilities can grow from investing in good working relationships and protected time for staff to create ideas together.
Peer Hub CIC is really excited for the opportunity to continue to work with Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust and I hope to see you all again soon!
(Author: Vikki Price, Peer Hub CIC)
Peer Hub CIC can offer a range of support and training for NHS and other employers seeking to grow their peer workforce. Book a free 1 hour consultation with us to find out more.