The Peer Onboarding Training Resource
Get the Peer Onboarding Doc Here
When starting out as a Peer Support Worker, it can be difficult to understand exactly what your role is and where you fit into an organization. This training resource was developed by Peers, for Peers and is intended to support newly hired Peers working within Harm Reduction. The resource provides information and training options on many topics to support Peers in the early stages of their role. Some of these topics include:
- An introduction to Peer support, how it differs from other roles, and the history of the Peer movement;
- Information about substance use, harm reduction, and responding to drug poisonings;
- Relationship building and communication skills;
- Resources for supporting reflection and personal well-being.
WHAT IS A HARM REDUCTION PEER?
A Harm Reduction Peer is someone who (1) has lived and/or living experience with a mental health, substance use, addiction and/or a trauma issue, (2) is able to draw from their unique skill sets derived from their lived and/or living experience, (3) engages in mutually supportive relationships with people struggling with similar issues and (4) may have received specialized training in the area of Peer support. Many Peer support workers experience intersectionality and may also have lived experience of homelessness and/or poverty.
Adapted from: Cusick, J. (June 2021). Peer Support Services in BC: An Overview. B.C. Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions
IN PERSON TRAININGS AND RESOURCES
Opportunities to connect with other Peers are noted within the resource. Recently hired Harm Reduction Peers will also be invited to take part in an in-person discussion within the first 6 months of employment. This is hosted by the WGDS, and is intended to provide newly hired Peers an opportunity to:
- Meet other Peers within Guelph and learn about resources in Guelph.
- Share what they have learned in the first months of their employment.
- Provide input and suggestions on ways in which this resource can be improved.
For more information, reach out to the Wellington Guelph Drug Strategy at [email protected]
Note: This resource is intended to be a ‘living document’ and will be updated as needed. The links & resources within the Peer Onboarding Resource are subject to change.
