Become a Volunteer Peer Support Champion!
Emerge Australia is excited to announce the launch of our Volunteer Peer Support Champion Program in 2025!
We are reaching out to members of the community who would like to participate.
About the Role
The purpose of the Volunteer Peer Support Champion is to lead and support an ongoing virtual support group after the professionally-facilitated sessions are over.
Aims:
- Reduce social isolation
- Enable meaningful connections
- Improve well-being and quality of life
- Build a safe and sustainable online environment
Steps to Becoming a Peer Support Champion:
- Sign Up: Attend one of Emerge Australia’s Virtual Support Groups, hosted by a professional facilitator. For more information, click here.
- Express your interest: Click here to express your interest in becoming a Volunteer Peer Support Champion. Our Support and Telehealth team will contact you with the next steps.
- Interview: Successful applicants will be invited to attend an online interview led by Laura Allen, our Health and Support Service manager.
- Requirements: If selected, you’ll need to complete a police check (paid by Emerge Australia) and sign a confidentiality agreement.
- Complete a short online course: Learn how to effectively facilitate online groups for social support.
What You Should Know
- Those who volunteer to become a Peer Support Champion will be guaranteed a spot in an Emerge Australia Virtual Support Group.
- We aim to have 2-3 Volunteer Peer Support Champions per group, to help share the load.
- Emerge Australia’s Support and Telehealth Service will be there to assist you along the way.
Time Commitment
- Help facilitate a 1-hour online session every 2-4 weeks.
- Allow 10-30 minutes to prepare for sessions and submit a brief report after each session.
No Experience? No Problem!
We have developed a short online course that covers the basics of facilitating a support group. The course is designed for individuals with energy-limiting diseases. Volunteer Peer Support Champions can access this course for free and complete it at their own pace. The course covers:
- Why Peer Support is Important: Understanding the benefits and research evidence.
- Running a Successful Group: Key skills and strategies.
- Taking Care of Yourself: Ensuring your well-being while facilitating.
- Managing the Logistics: Covering all the essential details.
We look forward to your involvement in this important initiative! For more information, please reach out to [email protected]
