Peer Support and Learning
Welcome to Peer Support and Learning!
LCiL’s Peer Support and Learning Team offer peer support groups and information sessions focused on social care (Self-directed Support) to Disabled People, Carers and those with long-term health conditions living in Edinburgh and the Lothians.
Our peer support groups provide a safe space to connect with others through shared experiences with the aim to strengthen knowledge, skills and confidence in all aspects of Self-Directed Support (SDS) and available social care options.
The sessions are welcoming, relaxed and informal. We focus on bringing people together to discuss the aspects of SDS that matter to them. We encourage mutual understanding and acceptance through the sharing of lived experiences.
What is Peer Support?
Focused on collective knowledge and collaboration, peer support groups provide a space for people to share their experiences, feelings, and knowledge with others who can understand.
Peers are those with similar lived experiences who can understand and offer support.
Peer support groups create a purposeful environment that uses collective knowledge, lived experience, and a mutual approach to build awareness and knowledge. The relationships and community built through peer support groups can also offer emotional and practical support.
Peer support has four essential components:
• Shared lived experience which builds trust and empathy
• A mutual relationship of equals where people walk alongside rather than ‘fix’
• A supportive relationship based on hope and belief
• An intentional space where people explore their options together
Feedback from participants
“I appreciated the non-judgemental atmosphere and hearing about a variety of life experiences. Alex and Daisy are wonderful and very welcoming.”
“ Very good and informative. I feel empowered because I know my options.”
“It has been very informative, and I thank you for making me feel empowered as I had no idea, I had all these options I could choose from. Now I can go back to them and get them to provide the option which is best for both my children as they have different needs.”
Group and Information Sessions
For info on future events, please check our calendar or sign up for our upcoming peer support groups on Eventbrite.
For information about accessibility at our sessions: accessibility info
For further information, please contact us on 0131 475 2350 or email: psl@lothiancil.org.uk
FAQs
Who can attend
This event is for Edinburgh residents. The groups are for Disabled People, those with long-term conditions and older people interested in learning about or accessing Self-Directed Support. We also welcome those currently accessing SDS to share their experiences and learn more.
Why attend
Meet other people who want to discuss and share knowledge around accessing Self-Directed Support . Find a community of people with similar lived experiences and practical information and resources about SDS and improve your understanding and confidence in managing all aspects of SDS.
Is lunch provided?
Lunch is provided at our in-person groups. If you have any dietary requirements, please tell us about them when you get a ticket for the event
Our team
- Interim Service Manager: Peer Support and Learning – Kirsty Sangster
- Peer Support and Learning Facilitator – Omar Haq
- Peer Support and Learning Facilitator – Daisy Moorcroft
- Peer Support and Learning Facilitator – Alexandra McKenzie
Contact us
We’re here and happy to help!
Please contact us on 0131 475 2350, Monday to Friday from 9am – 4pm. You can leave a voicemail message outwith these hours or email: psl@lothiancil.org.uk
LCiL are grateful for the support of the Support in the Right Direction funding from Scottish Government / Inspiring Scotland – the main funders of this service.
