CILT Peer Connect is a monthly virtual cross-disability peer support meeting for a cross-disability group of adults facilitated by staff with lived experience. We may all have different lived experience of disability, but this group is an opportunity to share and discuss what works for us and hear about what works for others so that we have a choice of strategies as we navigate the world and thrive.
In every session we have:
-A check in where people can share their name, pronouns, a joy and a challenge they have experienced since our last meeting
-A discussion topic or wellness activity
-Resource sharing about any upcoming programs, events, media or information related to disability
-A check out
This group is grounded in principles of Disability Justice, including the principles of anti-oppression and of interdependence. We recognize that intersecting identities inform lived experience and welcome this experience in Peer Connect.
Group Agreements and discussion topics will be sent out when you register. You will receive a reminder email one week before the program and a zoom link the day before. Please be ready to participate in activity and discussion.
Let us know about any access needs when you register. There is an option to join these sessions by phone. Automatic closed captioning will be provided. ASL-English interpretation is available if requested in advance.
This program is available for Ontario residents. To register you will be asked to provide your first and last name and what city you will be joining from. To register or for more info email rebecca.wood@cilt.ca or phone: 416-599-2458 ext 291 TTY: Dial 711 for Bell Relay Service
Peer Support Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Peer Support?
Peer Support is …
· Listening to others
· Sharing thoughts and exploring ideas
· Looking at different options and choices
· Empowering others to make their own decisions
· Respecting confidentiality
· Setting guidelines and expectations
· Knowing it’s ok to not have all the answers
· Sharing community resources that might be helpful referrals
· 2. What isn’t Peer Support?
Peer Support is not …
· Providing professional counseling or therapy
· Giving advice
· Solving other people’s problems for them
· Discussing medical information or therapeutic intervention
· Trying to be the “expert” (we are only experts on our own experience)
3. What are the Key Concepts of Peer Support?
Key Concepts of Peer Support include…
· Support among persons facing similar barriers
· Connection
· Equity
· Mutual relationships
· Respect
4. What is a Peer?
A Peer is …
· Someone who has directly experienced a disability
· Someone who is willing to share their personal stories with others in similar situations
· Someone who understands and can relate to feelings and challenges faced by others in similar situations.
5. What Skills and Attributes are required to be a peer?
A peer needs to be able to…
· Listen and not advise
· Be willing to share insights and experiences
· Be kind and empathetic to ourselves and each other
· Recognize personal limitations and ask for help when required
· Practice self-care when stories may be hard to share or hard to hear
· Allow someone to make his or her own decisions without passing judgement
· Have the confidence to share your experiences openly and honestly.
