STEPS, a recognised leader in Australia’s mental health services, is reinforcing its commitment to improving mental health outcomes by collaborating with renowned international expert Robyn Priest. Together, they are launching a peer support training initiative during Mental Health Week 2024, aimed at expanding the role of peer-led mental health interventions in the country.
Peer support has been identified as a vital tool in the recovery process for individuals with mental health challenges. Research consistently highlights its effectiveness, with peer-led interventions linked to a significant reduction in hospital readmissions, sometimes by as much as 38%.
Through this collaboration, STEPS and Robyn Priest Live Your Truth are addressing the urgent need to strengthen peer support systems across the mental health sector, ensuring that individuals receive compassionate and community-based support during their recovery.
Carmel Crouch, managing director of STEPS expressed the importance of this collaboration stating that the partnership with Robyn Priest reflected STEPS' commitment to developing a mental health support system that truly prioritises the power of lived experience.
‘By equipping peer support workers with enhanced skills and innovative strategies, we aim to create stronger, more resilient support systems across Australia’, Ms Crouch said.
The training workshops, designed for peer support supervisors and aspiring leaders, will introduce practical tools for managing peer relationships, addressing challenges in the field, and ensuring that peer support remains at the forefront of mental health care.
Robyn Priest, co-creator of Robyn Priest Live Your Truth, stated:
‘Peer support is about two people with some kind of shared common experience being able to have a conversation about it and hear how they got through it. It's about feeling like you're not alone, not the only one who's experienced something.’
‘We've really taken a look at the qualities that peer support workers need to be able to do an amazing job, stay true to peer support values, no matter what environment they're in.’
Key Facts:
STEPS is taking an innovative approach to improving mental health outcomes through innovative peer support services and industry professional development in peer support.
About us:
ABOUT STEPS
STEPS empowers individuals and communities through inclusive training, employment, and support services. We’re dedicated to breaking down barriers, creating opportunities, and building a sense of belonging, ensuring everyone has the chance to achieve their full potential. We’re committed to making a difference by providing opportunities that truly change lives.
Visit STEPS for more information.
For more information about the workshops visit STEPS Live Your Truth Workshop
Contact details:
Elisa Monagle
0488 180 717