Venue: Online – Teams
Dates: Fortnightly from 23rd January to 20th March 2025
We are a fun, safe, friendly and supportive group. The Peer Support Space is an open space for all, where we can connect with our peers, discuss issues around our volunteering positions, find out about up-coming events and opportunities, as well as sharing our talents and skills. It is NOT a therapeutic space, so if you think you need therapy, please speak to a member of staff at Mind, approach your GP or self- refer to Talk Changes.
When and where does it happen?
We currently meet every other Thursday, from 5.30 to 7pm, online. The group is constantly evolving, and we are open to suggestions about different days and times for meeting up.
Our guidelines
Here are some guidelines to ensure that everyone can enjoy the space safely.
1. We will all take responsibility for our own wellbeing. If we hear something difficult, we will move away from the screen, mute the conversation, or do what we need to do to feel secure and calm.
2. We will not discuss any personal details of another member, outside of the group.
3. We will not shout at, push our opinions on, or display any inappropriate behaviour to any member.
4. Only one of us speaks at a time. We can share what we feel comfortable sharing, but this is not a religious, or political forum, so we must remain respectful, and try to keep to our own experiences.
5. If we arrive late, we may have to wait in the waiting room, until someone has finished speaking, or until there is a natural pause. If we arrive with less than 5 minutes left of the meeting, we will not be admitted.
6. If we are upset by the actions of others, we will talk to the facilitator, or someone at CHWF Mind to try to get a resolution.
7. We will receive a follow-up email between meetings, that contains links and information regarding relevant services.
8. We will attempt to attend as much as possible and notify the facilitator if we are unable to attend. If we cannot attend, but wish to be involved, we can request this from the facilitator, and not have to indicate our attendance status.
9. We will use a trauma-informed approach when we talk to our peers.
10. We are all welcome- That means camera on or off; Just listening; Contributing or not; all genders, sexual orientations, races, disabilities, religions, etc.
How can I be involved in this?
Come along to a meeting! Please contact Michelle Bell by email to request a link at the following email address: [email protected]
Alternatively, ask Michelle about the group, via the email address above.
You can also join the WhatsApp group. Email Michelle for an invitation.
What if I don’t have access to the internet?
Maybe you have a friend, family member or neighbour that can help? There is no harm in asking!
Hackney libraries provide the use of personal computers, with internet and printing access. Find out more about your nearest libraries here: https://hackney.gov.uk/libraries/#times
Apart from libraries, you can find out where else you can get free internet access in Hackney, by clicking this link: https://hackney.gov.uk/internet-and-computers
We look forward to welcoming you soon!