A peer supporter is a clinician or staff member who has been trained to offer emotional support to colleagues facing challenging situations, such as staffing shortages, increasing workforce safety issues or adverse events. Peer supporters bring personal experience and understanding of the unique challenges that come with working in health care to this volunteer role.
A peer supporter helps colleagues by listening, normalizing feelings, validating competency, offering compassion and directing them to additional resources if needed.
No! A peer supporter can be any team member in any role. It is important to have a variety of peer supporters so we can match those looking for support with someone in a similar position.
You should expect to commit 2-4 hours a month to volunteering as a peer supporter, depending on demand. Everything is virtual. You may provide support over the phone or on a computer. You will also be asked to attend periodic check-in meetings with other peer supporters on Zoom.
Health care professionals face challenges such as staffing shortages, increasing workforce safety issues, adverse events, and other personal and professional issues that are unique to their work. Peer-to-peer support connects health care workers with colleagues at their organization or another health care facility in Massachusetts that are in a similar role. A peer supporter understands what someone is going through because they’ve also been there.
Peer supporters are here to help – whether that’s just one phone call or an ongoing conversation. If you're struggling with something stressful at work, reach out to the Virtual Peer Support Network and get connected with someone who’s been there and understands what you’re going through. They are trained volunteers who can also connect you with other resources if needed.
Call 617-701-8101 or fill out this online form. You will be matched with a peer supporter within 1-2 business days. All conversations are confidential.
Contact Peer.Support@BetsyLehmanCenterMA.gov.