Peer Support Program

The RCFC Peer Support Program is a program which provides one-on-one assistance to people who are recovering from an on-going mental illness.

The common goal of all Peer Support relationships is greater independence.  The assistance provides learning to enhance the person’s life and reach personal goals such as growing more confident by getting out and being active, or meeting people.  It could mean learning what community activities are available in Richmond.

Peer Support Workers have undergone a comprehensive training program to enhance their skills and/or knowledge in the areas of communication, problem solving, mental illness and community resources.  They also have personal experience with mental illness.  They provide support and encouragement to peers in the initial stages of recovery.  They work under the supervision of the program’s Coordinator.

The relationship between the Peer Support Worker and the Peer is usually six months long.  It can be shorter or longer to enable the client to reach their goals at their own pace.

We work in the community and at Richmond General Hospital. On the hospital psych ward the duties are different as several clients are seen over the two hour period. The hospital occupational therapist oversees our workers and directs us to the clients who are ready for our program.

Confidentiality is a fundamental principle of the Peer Support Program.  Any information obtained through the Peer Support relationship is kept private.

If you are interested in finding out more about becoming a Peer Support Worker or would like to request a Peer Support Worker or have a referral for someone who could use our services please call 604-675-3977 extension 3.

If you are a client of the Richmond Mental Health Team and wish to be referred to the Peer Support Program, ask your case manager for a referral.

Otherwise take the click here and take this form into your doctor.