UCCS First Priority Peer Support Program for Faculty and Staff

What is the First Priority Peer Support Program?

New to UCCS! Peer Supporters are trained colleagues who can provide a safer intended space for support and resources to peers experiencing stress, trauma, burnout, and more. Peer support is confidential: What is said to a Peer Supporter stays between the peer and the Peer Supporter, except in times of imminent risk. 

Peer Support helps to normalize stress reactions - reducing stigma and barriers to other supports such as professional services, and can increase the bonding of an organization or team. 

Peer Supporters are NOT professional counselors. They listen and support, provide immediate help and assistance and, if necessary, refer personnel to an appropriate professional resource. 

Who is it for?

Peer Support is open to any UCCS Faculty or Staff member seeking support for workplace stress, critical incident events, personal stress and well-being, and more. A Peer Supporter can offer space to talk, validation and support of experiences, and possible helpful resources. Peer Support is a space for YOU!

What is Involved in Being a Peer Supporter?

This role is undertaken in conjunction with normal operational responsibilities. Along with this initial training course, you will receive check-ins and support from a professional mental health supervisor. This, together with your knowledge of the dynamics within your agency, will assist you to:

• Be a contact and referral person for colleagues who may seek help
• Assist in caring for members with ongoing life stressors
• Be able to identify and approach someone who may be in distress

Roles and Responsibilities for Being a Peer Supporter:

• To undertake initial and ongoing training
• To maintain a high level of ethical behavior and strict adherence to confidentiality
• To participate in supervision meetings with a supervisor as deemed appropriate
• To be knowledgeable of agency employee assistance services and/or programs
• To provide assistance and referral for personnel as required within the framework of the agency and community resources
• To actively encourage staff to participate in education and awareness programs directed toward physical and emotional fitness
• To maintain a knowledge of local referral agencies and mechanisms to gain access to them
• To abide by rules and guidelines regarding the behavior and duties of a Peer Supporter
• To create a safer space of support

To Request Peer Support or Sign up to Become a Peer Supporter, click the Learn More button below!

Learn More