Peer Support...What is it exactly?

Peer support is a term you may have heard around the stations. I want to clear up any confusion about  what it is and/or the roles Peer support members play. The definition of Peer support is...

"Peer support occurs when people provide knowledge, experience, emotional, social or practical help to each other. It commonly refers to an initiative consisting of trained supporters (although it can be provided by peers without training), and can take a number of forms such as peer mentoring, listening, or counseling. Peer support is also used to refer to initiatives where colleagues, members of self-help organizations and others meet, in person or online, as equals to give each other support on a reciprocal basis."(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peer_support)
"Peer support is distinct from other forms of social support in that the source of support is a peer, a person who is similar in fundamental ways to the recipient of the support; their relationship is one of equality. A peer is in a position to offer support by virtue of relevant experience: he or she has "been there, done that" and can relate to others who are now in a similar situation."
(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peer_support)

At Marysville Fire we have adopted a Peer Support Program to assist members and their families with stress and crisis. Peer support members have been trained and and certified through International Critical Stress Foundation Inc.(ICSFI). Our mission is to assist individuals with confidential help.  Members who seek additional help are assisted with resources that will aid the individual.  If you or someone you know could use some assistance, please don't hesitate to approach any of the peer support members...
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Patrick Woolcock
Kate Songhurst
Rick Jesus
Russell Colmore
Darren Green
Jacob McConkey
Ricky Williamson

We are here for you.  You are not alone.

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