After a successful two-year pilot, the Peer Support Program at the Dauphin Regional Health Centre (DRHC) has received funding to continue providing services. An announcement was made by Manitoba's Mental Health and Community Wellness Minister, Sarah Guillemard this week.
The funding is part of "A Pathway to Mental Health and Community Wellness: A Roadmap for Manitoba." Peer Support Canada defines peer support as “emotional and practical support between two people who share a common experience, such as a mental health challenge or illness.” Peer support is rooted in core values, including self-determination, respect, hope and recovery, and empathetic and equal relationships. Staff offer support in person or virtually as well as one to one or in group settings.
The Peer Support Program in Dauphin at the DRHC was started by Prairie Mountain Health and Peer Connections Manitoba in June of 2020.