Peers4Peers Service

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Peer mentoring

Here at Adoption East Midlands, we have been busy creating a network of experienced adopters who can share their knowledge and expertise to support adoptive families in need of support.

We have been working alongside experienced adopters and Adoption UK to gain a greater depth of understanding about the lived experience of an adoptive family, adoptive parents and their children. Together we have been able to think about the key areas of support and advice that adoptive parent’s need.

What is Peers4Peers?

Peers4Peers is a peer support service within Adoption East Midlands created and run by adopters for adopters. Peers4Peers has recruited volunteer adopter peer mentors who feel passionate about sharing their lived experience. All of our peer mentors have access to training and support in relation to their volunteer role.

Our aim has been to:

  • create a community to provide informal peer support
  • be able to offer various forms of peer support, recognising the bravery it takes to seek help
  • value the lived experiences of our adopters: prioritising the real-life experiences of our community
  • create a community that is supportive, listens to others and 'just gets it!'

What is mentoring?

Peer mentoring is non-directive, non-judgemental and a supportive hand on the shoulder though the challenges of adoption. The mentor can share their own experience and signpost to further support and information. A mentor will be a listening ear who can provide kindness, empathy, validation and support a mentee’s experience.

If you feel you would benefit from having a peer mentor, then please complete our short referral form and we’ll be in touch.

As well as linking adopters with peer mentors we also run regular coffee mornings for AEM adopters to connect with one another. Please keep an eye on our events page for the next upcoming events.

Get in touch

If you’re an adopter interested in becoming a peer mentor, please drop us an email at Peers4peers@adoptioneastmidlands.nottscc.gov.uk and we’ll talk to you about the role and what it entails.

Peer Reflections

Peer Reflections on School Residentials [PDF] - our Complex Trauma Co-Production group have created a comprehensive guide titled 'Peer Reflections on School Residentials'. This document offers valuable insights and practical tips to help families and schools support children during school trips.