Getting it right for everyone (GIRFE) toolkit

Peer support training

This tool provides a framework to develop effective peer support training that will equip people with the skills, knowledge, and support needed to effectively help others while also supporting their own well-being and development.

Many people wanting to become mentors said they would benefit from training to:

• help them better understand the role
• shadow an existing mentor
• build knowledge of local services and activities
• feel confident in that knowledge
• help them maintain their own wellbeing; and
• have on-going support

This suggested training framework provides a flexible guide to help create peer support training. 

Pre-training

Information session

• introduction to the organisation
• explain peer support – what it is, levels, principles
• reasons to become a supporter
• what training involves
• people can decide if they want to continue

Pre-training shadowing

• personal well-being
• confidentiality
• sharing experience in a trauma informed way
• observing a mentor in action

Suggested training modules

Principles and understanding

• expected values and behaviours
• knowledge about specific support area
• legal and ethical guidelines
• confidentiality
• data protection

Sharing and supporting skills

• active listening
• communication
• basic well-being skills (hygiene, health, cooking)
• guidance on sharing lived experience effectively, possibly with experienced mentors sharing their insights

Building knowledge of support services

• finding information about local services and activities
• mental health and well-being resources (local and national)
• awareness training (including suicide, drugs/ alcohol, naloxone)
• first aid, including mental health first aid
• child protection if relevant

Challenges we face

• trauma training
• dealing with difficulties
• personal wellbeing

Quizzes could be used throughout or at the end of training sessions to assess knowledge. Role-playing scenarios could be used to test understanding and skills.

End of training support

• introductions to supervisors, mentors/buddies, and peer support networks
• opportunities to connect with other trainees
• ongoing professional development
• potential for career progression into paid peer support roles