Quality Indicators of Peer Support

Peer Support 101 Section 4

Quality Indicators of Peer Support

• Peer Support is defined as different from both professional clinical services and sponsorship or mentorship in other support groups
• Peer Support services should be mutually voluntary and peer lead.
• Peer Support programs should follow a well-defined model of outreach, engagement, advocacy, recovery support, and personal wellness.
• Programs should invest in the development of Peer Support Specialists own personal leadership skills.
• Peer Support Programs should reflect recovery-oriented values.
• Self-care is a top priority for Peer Support programs, with a well-defined process for supporting Peer Support Specialists during times of relapse.
• Peer Support Specialists are encouraged to connect participants to any service that will promote their recovery regardless of the services’ location or type.
• Peer Support Specialists must have mutual, collaborative relationships with organization’s participants AND administration.
• Peer Support programs should have a clear plan of sustainability.
• The governing body of each agency must have fiscal and risk management policies in place to protect the continuation of services.