Peer Support at Cowichan Valley Independent Living Resource Centre Today….
Sometimes we learn best from someone who has walked ahead of us on the same path in life that we are embarking upon. That is the Independent Living philosophy of the Peer Support movement here at Cowichan Valley Independent Living Resource Center. Consumers that live with a disability are able to support and learn from each other.
Someone who is experiencing disability first-hand has learned valuable coping skills- learning and teaching skills that in turn they can share with a peer. Together, peers are able to provide each other with hope and inspiration all the while sharing each other’s ideas through workshops, learning experiences or social activities.
What is Peer Support?
Peer Support is in part…
- Listening to others.
- Sharing thoughts and exploring ideas.
- Looking at different options and choices.
- Empowering others to make their own decisions.
- Respecting confidentiality.
- Setting guidelines and expectations.
What is a Peer at CVILRC?
A Peer is…
- Someone who has directly experienced a disability or lives with one today.
- Someone who is willing to share their personal stories with others in similar situations.
- Someone who understands and can relate to feelings and challenges faced by others in similar situations.
