Peer Support Programmes: promoting inclusivity, equality, connection and community

by Anne Ford 

Content & format

In this workshop we will be exploring what peer support is and what it can offer to universities and their students. Through both looking at the theory behind the importance of setting up well run Peer Support Programme and participating in exercises, participants will understand first hand  the values inherent in such a programme: equality, compassion, kindness, empathy, respect, encouraging connection, belonging and tolerance. 

Learning outcomes

Peer Support Programmes are preventative and reduce stigma around support seeking behavior.  They help to create universities that encourage kindness, empathy and compassion, which in turn helps students to develop a sense of belonging and community. Peer Support promotes connection between students and between students and their institution, thereby reducing isolation and helping with retention.  

About Anne Ford

Anne Ford, has over 38 years of experience in peer support programmes – at Oxford University and other institutions in the UK and USA – and has run training for peer support trainers in the UK (Oxford University, Glasgow, Oxford) and Estonia (University of Tartu, Tallinn University). She is enthusiastic about all things peer support, and looks forward to sharing her knowledge, thinking and passion with you.