Understanding the Value Base That Supports the Development of Peer Support Relationships

Abstract

Peer support describes a particular kind of relationship where people who have lived experiences in common come together to safely share those experiences in a supportive environment. Peer support can be found in different settings and can draw on a range of experiences, but has notable roots in mental health where people with similar lived experience of mental health challenges come together to provide and receive support. Peer support is found in both statutory and community mental health settings, as well as in the community via grassroots and voluntary sector organisations. One of the strengths of peer support is that it can be adapted to different contexts. The McPin Foundation have been involved in several evaluations and projects in which we have explored values which promote and uphold the development of peer support relationships. We have found a similar set of values to be present across a range of projects, and that they may be expressed in different ways. Where these values are present, they promote the development of relationships that are mutual, open, genuine and supportive. In this chapter, we will explore what these values are, and what these relationships look like, with reflections from people who have participated in peer support.