Being connected to other people who share similar experiences can make a huge difference for people who draw upon care and support.
Peer support and strong community networks bring people together to share information and practical ideas. This can support people to understand their rights, find out what’s happening locally and make decisions about what will work for them.
What is peer support?
Peer support happens when people who have similar life experiences come together to support each other. It might involve:
Sharing personal experiences and advice
Offering emotional support and encouragement
Supporting each other to navigate services or systems
Campaigning together for change
Peer support can happen in many ways: face-to-face groups, online forums, social media groups, one-to-one connections, or through community organisations.
“Peer support groups should be established and funded … to enable best practice, problem solving, mutual understanding and support, as well as the sharing of resources.”
Dean Thomas
How peer support can lead to more choice and control
People who draw upon care and support often say that connecting with others who “get it” makes a huge difference. Peer support helps people:
Feel understood and valued
Discover practical solutions to challenges
Find the confidence to speak up and make choices about their support
Build new skills and knowledge
Reduce feelings of isolation or loneliness
“Using local connections and peer support groups has been hugely important to me. Through them, I’ve employed lots of disabled people as PAs and they’ve been the best PAs ever.”
Isaac Samuels OBE
National Co-production Advisory Group
Examples of community-led support
Across the country, there are many examples of community groups and networks that support people to have more choice and control. For example:
Peer support groups for people using Direct Payments: Sharing tips on managing personal budgets, employing personal assistants, and dealing with challenges.
Parent carer networks: Providing opportunities for families of disabled children connect and share knowledge.
LGBTQ+ peer support groups: Providing safe spaces to discuss specific needs and experiences related to identity and care.
User-led organisations: Groups run by people who draw upon care and support, offering advocacy, training, and support services.
These networks are often a crucial part of local communities and can complement formal services.
