Peer Responder programs across Metro North promote staff wellbeing by utilising the skills and experiences of our staff to create an approachable, accessible and friendly pathway to support for staff members in times of distress.
Peer Responders are a team of people who volunteer to provide trusted and confidential support to colleagues when it is needed.
Peer responders:
- Reach out to colleagues and ask “are you ok?”
- Provide care and confidential peer support to any staff member at any time of stress
- Champion the Metro North Values in Action.
Who can be a Peer Responder?
You! If you’re a staff member who has an enthusiastic, empathetic and nurturing approach, and a genuine interest in wellbeing of your colleagues then the Peer Responder program may be for you. Peer Responders will be sorted from all teams and areas of operation across STARS.
What makes an effective Peer Responder?
- The ability to maintain and understand confidentiality is key
- Passion to create a better work environment
- An interest in health and wellness, and eagerness to learn more
- Proven ability to build and maintain positive working relationships
- The ability to remain considerate of individuals, their personal choices and right to privacy
- Desire to support others in times of need
- Good awareness of own indicators of stress and wellbeing
- Good listening and empathy skills.
What commitment is required?
To complete the peer responder selection process, following the initial recruitment process of an application and interview, attendance at a one-day training is required. Following this, if successful in being recruited to the program, monthly supervision and reporting is an ongoing requirement.
As a Peer Responder, it is expected you will perform these requirements, as well as the peer responder contacts with staff, as a component of your substantive role and with the approval of your manager.
How will it benefit me?
Peer responders are provided with training and professional development in psychological first aid, wellbeing and compassion fatigue. In addition to the initial training requirements, peer responders will also have access to ongoing professional development. You will receive monthly support from the staff psychologist and access to tools and resources to support your colleagues.
What does a Peer Responder do?
Peer responders can come from all areas of the organisation including frontline staff, managers and executive, and from across all disciplines including administration, operational and clinical.
Specialised training equips peer responders with the skills to identify and support fellow staff members in distress. This includes recognising signs, approaching conversations and linking staff with additional support services.
Employees can call upon a peer responder to support them when faced with all kinds of stresses, instigated from either work or home. This may include:
- Work relationships
- Personal relationships
- Work life balance/parenting
- General health and wellbeing.
Another key part of the Peer Responder role is being an advocate for the program. Actively marketing and promoting the program is an essential part of being a Peer Responder.
How can I get involved and find out more?
If you are interested in applying for a peer responder role or learning more about the program and recruitment process, please contact the Values in Action team via: MNvalues@health.qld.gov.au
You can also find out more by visiting these websites: