Starting out on a recovery journey can be a truly daunting experience, so being able to talk to and get support from someone who has "been there and done it" can make a world of difference.

That’s why we’re committed to placing people with direct personal experience of the issues that affect our clients at the heart of our services.

Peer Mentors use their first-hand experience to help our clients in their recovery, helping those in similar situations to overcome adversities and turn their lives around.

This can include practical support such as signposting to services; sharing advice, approaches and techniques; and attending services and appointments.

Peer Mentors are also key in giving clients someone to talk to. Clients often need to be reassured that they are not alone, with Mentors helping them explore their thoughts and feelings, and increase their self-esteem and confidence.

An inspiration to others

Peer Mentors act as role models and an inspiration to individuals who may be new to services or who are working towards recovery.

They can show clients that recovery is possible, empowering them to make positive changes, and feel more secure in their own-wellbeing and recovery journey.

To ensure all our Peer Mentors are equipped to provide the best support possible to our clients, SHP's Peer Mentoring Programme - which is accredited by the NCVO Mentoring and Befriending Approved Provider Standard - equips every Peer Mentor with the necessary knowledge and skills through an eight-day training alongside tailored support and supervision from staff. In the last year, we've trained over 25 Peer Mentors to support the work of our staff in our services. 
 

At the beginning of my recovery journey, I remember wanting to talk to people who had been through what I was going through and had been successful in recovery.

Tony spent years in full-time employment as a functioning alcoholic before realising he needed to change. After attending a six-month rehab, he was supported by peer mentors in our Camden Recovery service - before going on to become a peer mentor himself.

Read Tony's Story