We have for many years provided opportunities for people who have a lived experience of mental ill-health to volunteer in varying roles. These roles have included peer supported befriending, supporting the development of the internet café or generally supporting clients in the Hub Centre.
Where we have developed local and national projects, such as the Working Well with Mental Health project and Self-Directed Support for Mental Health Service Users, peer support volunteers have played a significant role in encouraging other service users to participate in all the activities, including making presentations to large public audiences and contributing in group discussions.