We often learn from the experiences of our friends and family and the experiences they have had. However when it comes to caring many of us do not know anyone else who has a caring role so we don’t have the opportunity to learn from the experiences of others. Peer mentoring can help.

What is peer mentoring?

Peer mentoring brings together a carer, who is interested in meeting someone who has lived through a particular experience or coped with a particular situation, with a volunteer mentor who is willing to share their story.
Through the mentoring relationship the carer may gain information and support which will help them to reflect on their own situation and possibly make decisions about next steps.

How often and where will we meet?

Peer Mentoring will be a structured but informal relationship with mentoring meetings taking place approximately every fortnight for around 3-5 sessions. Meetings will predominantly take place virtually at a time that is suitable to you. This may be video or telephone depending on the match with your Peer Mentor and your needs.

What to do if I want a mentor?

Edinburgh
Call the Edinburgh carer support team on 0131 622 6666 or centre@vocal.org.uk to discuss if a mentor would be useful for you.
Contact VOCAL Carer Support

Midlothian
Call the Midlothian carer support team on 0131 663 6869 or midlothian@vocal.org.uk to discuss if a mentor would be useful for you.
Contact VOCAL Carer Support

Our supporters

This work is supported by the Life Changes Trust, the Lottery Community Fund, Volunteer Midlothian and Health and Social Care Alliance Scotland (the ALLIANCE)