Peer Support Service (East Sussex Community Network)

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About the service

The Peer Support Service is provided by Peer Specialists, people with lived experience of mental health challenges, who can support you to take control of your mental health and stay well.

The service is part of a network of mental health recovery support, called the East Sussex Community Network.

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At Southdown we are committed to supporting people whilst keeping both our clients and staff safe by practicing good infection control. You can read our latest Covid-19 statement here.

What support is available?

One to one support

Drawing on personal experiences of mental health challenges our Peer Support Specialists will work with you to support recovery and prevent crisis, enabling you to identify and maintain positive coping strategies and self-management tools.

Our trained Peer Specialists will work with you for up to 6-8 sessions enabling you to identify goals and overcome challenges that will help you move forward in your recovery and maintain positive health and well-being. This includes managing your mental health, identifying your strengths and interests, connecting with the local community and exploring options such as volunteering, returning to work or other beneficial activities.

Drop in sessions

We also offer weekly recovery focussed drop in sessions at our East Sussex Community Network Well-being centres where you can talk with other people facing mental health challenges in a friendly, safe and informal environment. The drop-ins are led by our Peer Specialists and a Peer volunteer, however, you will have the opportunity to share and listen to stories of recovery and hope, enabling and empowering one another to move forward and identify management techniques and pathways for recovery. If you are interested in volunteering your time to co-facilitate our weekly drop-in sessions, please get in touch.

Where can I access support?

The Peer Support Service is provided at seven Wellbeing Centres in Hastings/ St Leonard’s, Bexhill, Lewes, Eastbourne, Hailsham, Uckfield and Newhaven. You can also request to meet a Peer Support Specialist in your local community.

Am I eligible and how do I apply?

The service is available for people aged 16+ living in East Sussex with mental health support needs. To apply, contact us on the details below. We accept self-referrals and referrals from organisations and providers on behalf of individuals.

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