The value of peer support

We all know the phrases ‘a problem shared is a problem halved’ or ‘it’s good to talk’ but the benefi ts in talking about how you are feeling go far beyond this. When we are in a diffi cult situation we lose our problem-solving abilities, it can be impossible to focus, and it can seem overwhelming to choose what action to take. Sometimes a listening ear and a nudge in the right direction is all we need to move on. We all need someone to talk to about personal matters without judgement and in confi dence. To listen to us and off er help when things get on top of us.

Sole practitioners may fi nd it diffi cult to know who to turn to when they are fi nding things hard. It may not be easy or helpful talking to a friend or family member. Perhaps we don’t want to worry them. Maybe they have their own problems going on. We might not have spoken to them in a while because we’ve been so busy at work. We may feel they won’t understand or feel afraid to unburden ourselves or let go in front of them. This is where peer support can play an important role.

What is peer support? Peer support is when people use their own lived experiences to help others. Getting emotional support from people who have similar experiences can improve wellbeing, increase self-esteem and confi dence, provide hope that we can move on from a diffi cult situation and help us manage it better.

What are the benefi ts of peer support? A review of over 1,000 research studies on peer support found that it helps people feel more knowledgeable, confi dent, happy, and less isolated and alone. The mutuality and reciprocity that occurs through peer support, builds social capital, which in turn is associated with wellbeing and resilience. LawCare and peer support At LawCare, we have a network of around 90 trained peer supporters, people who work in, or have worked in, the legal profession who may have been through diffi cult times themselves and can off er one-to-one support, friendship and mentoring over 2/3 telephone calls to those who need it. They understand life in the law and all its challenges - this is what makes our support service unique, and supporters well placed to help other legal professionals. Our peer supporters refl ect the diversity of the legal profession and are drawn from all branches of the legal profession and career stages. They are from diff erent age groups, genders, and ethnic groups.

Our peer supporters provide knowledge, emotional assistance, experience, practical help, and social interaction. They are not counsellors, and they can’t provide people with solutions to their problems, but they have been specifi cally selected and trained in listening skills and are empathetic and non-judgemental. Usually, peer supporters provide support over two to three phone calls, but it can be less or more than this, it just depends on the individual and what they need.

One of our supporters, Simon explains “Life doesn't run in straight lines. It's important for people to know that they can talk openly, confi dentially and without ever feeling they're being judged, no matter what the issue is which is troubling them, be it stress, anxiety, addiction, or anything else. Being able to speak with another member of the legal profession helps too. All of this is uniquely available at LawCare".

The most common issues our peer supporters can help with are: • Worries about training • Diffi cult relationships at work • Struggling with workload • Anxiety • Stress • Depression • Addiction • Bereavement • Returning to work after illness or a career break • Worrying if law is the right career for you • Facing disciplinary proceedings either by your regulator or employer

Sam* was recently allocated a LawCare peer supporter. He told us “This is the fi rst time in 3 months I have been able to feel a little bit more relaxed. It was so nice to know somebody else understands me. Even though I have a wife and family and friends, my peer supporter knew exactly how I felt.”

I am interested in peer support – what should I do next? Many people fi nd peer support helps them, but it is not for everyone. Before considering making an application, think about the following: • Am I comfortable talking about my experiences to new people? Talking about your experiences can make you feel more aware of your thoughts and emotions. • Am I comfortable hearing about someone else’s experiences? Listening to someone else’s experiences can help you feel less alone and introduce you to new ways of coping, but it may also be unhelpful. • Am I well enough? If you are in an acute crisis, peer support may not be right for you at the moment. • Is it the right time? Is peer support what you need at the moment?

If you feel a peer supporter could help you, please visit http://www.lawcare.org.uk/ peersupport and complete the application form. One of our team will then be in touch by telephone to discuss your needs and see if we can match you with an appropriate peer supporter. We expect to reply within two weeks of your application, and it may take up to one month to allocate a peer supporter. We can’t guarantee that we will be able to off er you a peer supporter as this does depend on your circumstances and their availability, but we try our best. If we are unable to allocate a peer supporter, you are also able to call our helpline for emotional support on 0800 279 6888, email support@lawcare.org.uk or access online chat and other resources at www.lawcare.org.uk

Anything you discuss with your peer supporter is confi dential, we will only break your confi dentiality if we are concerned that you are at immediate risk of harm to yourself or others.

Elizabeth Rimmer Chief Executive LawCare