PeerTalk Support Groups

You can read about how the groups work below. If you have any other queries before coming along, call 07719 562 617 and we'll be happy to chat.

Questions about PeerTalk Support Groups

How long is the Support Group meeting?
The group usually lasts for an hour to an hour and a half.

Is there an age restriction?
Yes, PeerTalk Support Groups are for people aged 18 and above.

Do I need to register for a Support Group?
No, you do not have to register in advance or make an appointment to attend a support group. Just turn up on the night. You will be most welcome.

How many people will be there?
On average there will usually be between five and ten people at each group, with a mixture of men and women.

Do I have to say anything when I get there?
Usually people are asked to introduce themselves to the group on a first name basis. After that, you don’t have to speak if you don‘t want to, you can sit back and listen. However, you can share if you wish. 

Can someone come with me for support? 
It can be helpful when a family member or friend brings you to your local support group, if attending for the first time. However, it is preferable for them to leave once the group begins. The group facilitators will be able to advise you as to what time the group finishes so that your friend or family member can return to meet you. Support meetings are usually 90 minutes long.

What if I want to meet with the other peers in the group outside of the meeting?
That's fine, if you're all okay with that.  After the meeting finishes, everyone stays behind for a cup of tea or coffee and we chat about anything and everything (but not about what was shared in the meeting space - as we respect the confidentiality of what was shared).  Sometimes peers will exchange mobile phone numbers and text each other in between meetings, or meet up. Peers can choose to extend their support of each other outside the group meetings if they wish.

What boundaries exist for facilitators?
An important part of the facilitators’ role is to maintain boundaries within the group so that all present feel safe enough to engage in the peer support. PeerTalk does not support any action or behaviour that blurs these boundaries. Therefore it is PeerTalk policy that our facilitators:  do not agree to meet with peers outside of the peer support groups; facilitators do not accept personal gifts from peers; facilitators do not offer personal sponsorship of peers in fundraising events; facilitators do not offer peers a lift to or from the meeting, etc.  We are committed to the personal wellbeing of all who attend the peer support group meetings and to upholding our values at all times.

 Are the meetings confidential?
Yes, within normal limits. There are some exceptions to the confidentiality that we keep and these exceptions are outlined at the start of every meeting.  These are in place to keep everyone who attends the meeting safe.

What happens if a meeting is cancelled - how will I know?
It's very rare that a meeting is cancelled, but it might happen if there's particularly bad weather, or if one of our facilitators is unable to come along and we can't replace them at short notice.  In these cases, we'll do our best to share this on our website, on this page, next to the group's details.  We'll also put it out on our Facebook page and on Twitter and Instagram. We'll also do our best to put up a notice on the door of the building where you meet.  If you would like to check if the meeting is on, you can always call or text the PeerTalk phone on 07719 562 617.

Is there a leaflet with information about how the groups works etc?
Yes, we offer people who come along to the meeting for the first time a leaflet containing information about how it all works. You can download it here.