HONEST, OPEN, PROUD:THE PEER SUPPORT WORKER PROGRAMME

HONEST, OPEN, PROUD:THE PEER SUPPORT WORKER PROGRAMME
by Eva Y

Yang, a 24-year-old member, once had his college studies interrupted because of mental illness. However with the support of Hope Clubhouse, he was able to complete his college courses. He shares: “I learnt the advantages and disadvantages of disclosing my disease from the Peer Support Programme, and I am willing to use my own experience to help and encourage people with similar experiences. I would like to receive training to be a Peer Support Worker!”

We are very encouraged by Yang, one of the few members who is brave enough to disclose his illness.

So we launched the Peer Support Workers Programme in December last year to train people in recovery to become peer support workers. They can use their expertise and become an example of rehabilitation to encourage other people with similar experiences. Surprisingly, 15 people signed up and we subsequently have a waiting list. 80% of the students completed the 18 hour theory course! And they have just started 26 hours of practicum in March. Please pray that they can apply what they have learnt!