Peer support toolkit overview
The following toolkit provides an overview of evidence-informed approaches to Peer Support, to help prevent and reduce AOD harms in your Local Drug Action Team (LDAT). LDATs can access the full version of the toolkits through the Community Action Plan platform LOG IN link (top right).
Peer Support is when people of a similar age, status, background or identity share experiences and provide knowledge and emotional, social or practical support to each other.
Peer Support can include a range of activities, from informal conversation between peers, through to formal programs that might involve trained and paid Peer Support workers.
Peer Support programs are typically most effective among young people
In the context of the LDAT Program, Peer Support programs focus on preventing alcohol and other drug (AOD) harms.
While there are many important Peer Support activities that focus on AOD treatment and recovery, this is outside the scope of LDATs, who are typically focused on prevention.
Peer Support programs draw on the credibility that young people have with their peers to encourage healthy role modelling, deliver persuasive messages and positively influence knowledge, attitudes, values and behaviours. This can help prevent AOD harms.
Peer support programs can help reduce known AOD risk factors in young people and promote protective factors.
Toolkit Includes:
- Key points
- Drawing on existing programs
- Guiding principles
- Considerations for planning and delivery
- Delivering Peer support Programs: key activity and measuring success
- Delivering Peer support Programs: key steps
