As a Senior Peer Worker at A Path To Follow, every day is a new adventure. My role combines supporting young people, collaborating with my team, and managing the complexities of peer work within community and related services. Many people often ask what my role involves, so I thought I’d give you a glimpse into a typical day in my life as a Senior Peer Worker!
Morning Routine and Preparation
My day usually kicks off with a strong protein shake—I’m not a coffee person. Before diving into work, I take time for myself by hitting the gym and lifting weights. It helps me feel energised, positive, and ready to tackle the day ahead.
After my workout, I spend a few minutes reviewing my calendar and emails and setting my priorities. Today’s agenda includes a team meeting, check-ins with my peers, handling new referrals, and several appointments with young people. It’s a busy day, but I always carve out some downtime between meetings because self-care is crucial in mental health work.
Team Meeting and Support
The day officially starts with a one-on-one meeting with my manager and the Founding Director of A Path To Follow, Kirstie. We check in with each other and then dive into discussing caseloads. This time is invaluable as we debrief on our current projects, address challenges, and ensure we’re aligned. Knowing where we both stand helps us work harmoniously and ensures our peers within the service feel heard and supported.
Youth Peer Support Group
One of my favourite parts of the job is creating safe and inclusive community spaces for young people. Today, my co-worker and I are launching our first youth peer support group! We’ve organised activities to engage the young people in an informal, non-clinical environment, building trust and creating a fun way for them to connect. These sessions are about more than just activities; they’re about establishing relationships in a space where young people feel seen, heard, and supported.
Peer Support Work with Young People
Wrapping Up and Reflecting
As the day winds down, I update my notes, send follow-up emails, and check in with my team members to ensure they feel supported. Pulse check-ins are a key part of my role—they allow me to connect with my workforce peers, offer guidance, and ensure they feel safe and heard. Before logging off, I reflect on the day’s wins and challenges. Working in peer support is both a privilege and a responsibility; each day brings a renewed sense of purpose. I wrap up by touching base with Kirstie about any outstanding tasks and close my laptop, feeling fulfilled and ready to relax with Beau.