Becoming a Peer Leader

This is what Peer Leaders in the National Strategic Coproduction Group have to say about their journey to becoming a peer leader.

‘’The Peer Leadership Academy helped me realise that what we do really can make a difference. The programme has enabled me to see beyond the immediate, and strive to not only help myself but others as well. Having grown in confidence and knowledge, I would encourage anyone who has enjoyed Steps One and Two to progress on to Step Three.” (Debs Robinson)

“The best thing for me was learning to be yourself, working with others to develop each other’s strengths and weaknesses, and proving that a disability is no obstacle.” (Vicky Buckingham)

“For a long time I was trying to advocate for my son and other people with complex disabilities, but felt isolated and ineffective. The value has been to connect with other amazing Peer Leaders, hear their stories of their resilience, understand that there are many shared challenges and that we need to work together to change large complex systems. This includes working collaboratively with professionals within the system, even when we have experienced difficulties and frustration. I am still learning and I still do not get it right all of the time, but it has opened the door to some incredible opportunities to write articles, attend meetings and speak to professional audiences. Importantly it has given me the confidence to say ‘yes’ to these opportunities and recognise the value I can bring to them.” (Helen Leonard)

“Realising that my lived experience has meaning and could help to influence what mattered to me, my family and others, both locally and nationally, has been such an important and exciting journey for me as a Peer Leader.” (Ali Smith)

“The Programme massively increased my knowledge and confidence and provided friendships with like-minded wonderful people who are a force for change and an inspiration and motivation for me in my role as a Peer Leader.” (Dave Johnston)

If you’ve been inspired by Steps One and Two, and want to apply for the Step Three, Peer Leadership Academy, you will need to:

• have fully completed Step One and Step Two
• have relevant lived experience of personalised care
• be able to commit to the course and virtual sessions
• agree with the values and principles, or ‘acts of leadership’ that define a Peer Leader

The ‘acts of peer leadership’ are being:

• willing to offer your time and commitment to the development of personalised care
• inspired by others and inspiring to others
• champions for personalised care
• collaborative and constructive
• keen to make a positive impact
• able to see things from a range of perspectives

There is more information about Step Three in your course booklet.