Program Coordinator, Fiona McLean, explained that the mental health sector is currently under immense pressure; it does not always have capacity to facilitate student placements.
“The newly opened Peer Connect allows us to provide a strong foundation block for students preparing for placement. They can undertake those first 20 or so placement hours on campus before entering sector placements equipped with more skills, a portfolio of professional development, and experience and familiarity working in a recovery-oriented framework,” McLean said.
“For those looking for mental health support, talking with a peer can feel less daunting. The purpose of Peer Connect is to add to the amazing networks and services RMIT already provides by adding another level of accessibility and support to students.
“Unlike other services, Peer Connect is facilitated and designed by those with living or lived experience of a mental health condition, and those in training to work in the sector. Peer Connect provides a space for students that is stigma-busting. It's a win-win for students on both sides.”
Peer Connect student peer worker, Tony Avard, explained the importance of providing a different type of support to the RMIT community.
“Peer work fits into so many different spaces in our community. It can connect with students who don’t want to engage with an institution. It can break down stigma. I am in a position to say “it happened to me, maybe it happened to you”. Suddenly there are 2 of you, then 5, then 10 and then you've broken down the stigma around a traumatic experience or mental health issue,” Avard said.
“Working with a psychologist is like following someone’s lead. Working with a peer worker is like walking alongside someone. It’s not trying to fix the person. It’s offering guidance, support, resources, information and connections to services.”