What is peer support?

Peer support is a way for people living with HIV to connect with others who understand what they’re going through — because they’ve been there themselves. It’s about sharing experiences, offering encouragement, and building a supportive community where everyone feels valued and understood.

How does peer support work?

Peer support typically involves one-to-one chats, group meetings, and online forums where individuals can:

• share personal stories and experiences;

• listen to others’ journeys;

• offer advice and practical tips;

• provide emotional support during difficult times;

• celebrate successes and milestones.
  
  The core idea is that people who have lived with HIV can offer unique understanding and empathy that others might not be able to provide.

Why peer support is so important?

Living with HIV can sometimes come with feelings of isolation, loneliness, and stigma. These feelings can impact mental health, self-esteem, and overall wellbeing. Peer support helps to:

• break down feelings of loneliness by connecting with others who truly understand your experiences;

• reduce stigma by creating a safe space where you can be open about your feelings and challenges;

• build confidence through shared knowledge and encouragement;

• empower individuals to take control of their health and wellbeing and raise awareness of relevant support and services;

• combat feelings of shame or fear by seeing others thriving with HIV services.

The power of peer support.

People often find that talking to someone who has faced similar challenges can be incredibly powerful. Peer support:

• offers hope and inspiration from real stories of resilience;

• provides practical advice from those who have navigated similar situations;

• creates a sense of belonging and community;

• helps to overcome barriers like fear, stigma, and misinformation.
  
  Many individuals tell us that peer support has been a turning point in their journey — helping them feel less alone and more in control of their lives.riving with HIV services.

Benefits of peer support.

Peer support is valuable for anyone affected by HIV — whether you’ve recently been diagnosed, have been living with HIV for years, or are supporting someone else. Engaging in peer support can lead to:

• improved mental health and emotional wellbeing;

• greater confidence in managing your health;

• reduced feelings of isolation and loneliness;

• increased knowledge about HIV and health management;

• stronger sense of community and belonging;

• better coping strategies for dealing with stigma and discriminations.

Peer support near you.

TOGETHER offers friendly, welcoming peer support spaces where you can share, listen, and grow. We have Peer Support Coordinators based in Brent, Ealing and Harrow. They host regular groups and organise frequent fun and interactive events throughout the year.

Our peer support team.

JOYCE - Brent Senior Peer Support Coordinator
07395 792 740 / JoyceB@positivelyuk.org

Joyce joined Positively UK in 1997, first as a volunteer, supporting the administration team. She later joined the Case Worker team in 2003 as a sessional worker, co-ordinating HIV services in South London. Now Joyce is the organisations project lead co-ordinator in the borough of Brent. She also does outreach in different clinics; working alongside health professionals in other boroughs. Joyce’s role involves advocacy and equipping service users with knowledge, skill and confidence to make informed choices on how to manage their own health.

AMY - Ealing Peer Support Coordinator
07912 267 053 / avindidu@positivelyuk.org

With a diagnosis of HIV twenty years ago, Amy received support from family, friends, and organisations such as Positively UK and Living Well. This support fuelled her dedication to ensuring that everyone living with HIV feels empowered, supported, and capable of living without stigma. Amy finds satisfaction in engaging with clients and assisting them in living their best lives with HIV. Beyond her professional duties, she has also contributed to HIV volunteering efforts during her time in Germany.

JULIE - Harrow Peer Support Coordinator
07912 267 052 / jwillis@positivelyuk.org

Julie joined Positively UK as a peer mentor and has been volunteering as a welfare and benefits advisor before becoming a Casework Coordinator in 2016 and Harrow Peer Support Coordinator in 2024. Julie is passionate about supporting people living with HIV in their life journeys.

Get involved !!!

If you’re interested in learning more about peer support or want to connect with others in your area, please get in touch with the relevant coordinator:

Joyce in Brent: 07395 792 740 / JoyceB@positivelyuk.org

Amy in Ealing: 07912 267 053 / avindidu@positivelyuk.org

Julie in Harrow: 07912 267 052 / jwillis@positivelyuk.org

Remember, you are not alone. Peer support can be a powerful step towards increased wellbeing, resilience, and hope.