Through data and storytelling, this presentation will showcase the results of a research project that reviewed the Hamilton Peer Support Team. Serving working-age and emerging adults living with mental illness and/or substance misuse who may be experiencing housing insecurity or homelessness, and/or involvement with the criminal justice system, the team visits encampments and shelters, and offers a wide range of services and supports. This presentation will discuss the services offered, how they impacted the lives of service recipients, what the Peer Support Workers found helpful in their work, as well as the value of Peer Support, and the challenges, barriers, and what the next steps might be to embed Peer Support as a valued and integral part of CMHA Hamilton.
Presented at the 2023 HSJCC Virtual Conference on November 15, 2023.
Presenters:
Mary Ellen Ruddell
DIRECTOR OF MENTAL HEALTH COURT SUPPORT AND PEER SUPPORT SERVICES
Canadian Mental Health Association, Hamilton Branch
Misty Thaler
PEER SUPPORT LEAD
Canadian Mental Health Association, Hamilton Branch
Rachel VanEvery
PHD CANDIDATE IN THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, AGING, AND SOCIETY
McMaster University
