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In the Spotlight...
26 Sep 2024
Peer Supporter for First Responders and/or a Family Member of a First Responder
Badge of Life Canada
Location
Virtual
Duties
Overview:
A Peer Supporter with Badge of Life Canada plays a crucial role in providing emotional and psychological support to Public Safety Personnel (police officers, firefighters, paramedics, correctional officers, nurses, military personnel) and their families who are experiencing operational stress injuries (OSI) such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Peer Supporters create a safe, confidential, and empathetic space for individuals to share their experiences, challenges, and feelings without judgment. Through lived experience and understanding, they help others navigate mental health challenges, build resilience, and find a path to recovery.
Key Responsibilities:
- Offer Emotional Support: Provide a non-judgmental and compassionate environment for individuals to express their feelings and challenges.
- Active Listening: Use active listening skills to understand the concerns of participants, ensuring they feel heard and validated.
- Share Lived Experience: Draw upon personal experiences in the public safety or military field (or from supporting a loved one in this field) to connect with participants, offering hope and encouragement.
- Promote Mental Wellness Resources: Help participants access additional mental health resources and services as needed, including therapy, counseling, and Badge of Life Canada’s educational programs.
- Confidentiality: Maintain the confidentiality of all discussions and interactions in accordance with Badge of Life Canada's policies.
- Collaborate with Professionals: Work closely with mental health professionals, facilitators, and the Badge of Life Canada team to ensure participants receive the best possible support.
- Provide Crisis Intervention: Recognize signs of crisis in participants and, if necessary, escalate the situation to appropriate professionals for further intervention.
Training and Support:
Badge of Life Canada provides comprehensive training to all Peer Supporters. Our training program equips you with the tools and skills needed to effectively support individuals dealing with operational stress injuries. This includes training in:
- Active listening techniques
- Crisis intervention and de-escalation
- Recognizing signs of OSI and PTSD
- Confidentiality and ethical boundaries
- Best practices for peer support in a public safety context
Ongoing support and supervision will be provided to ensure Peer Supporters have access to guidance and resources while serving in their roles.
Qualifications:
- Lived experience as a Public Safety Personnel, military member, or as a family member of someone in these roles.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to actively listen.
- Empathy, patience, and a non-judgmental attitude.
- Commitment to confidentiality and ethical standards.
- Willingness to participate in all required training sessions.
Commitment:
Peer Supporters are asked to dedicate time to facilitate or participate in peer support meetings, either virtually or in person, on a regular basis (typically weekly or bi-weekly). Flexibility in schedule is important, as meetings may vary depending on participant needs.
Impact:
As a Peer Supporter with Badge of Life Canada, you will play a vital role in helping individuals and families cope with the challenges of operational stress injuries. Your support can make a meaningful difference in their mental health journey, providing them with hope, strength, and a path toward healing.