Mental-health experts, carers, and islanders with lived experience of mental-health conditions are due to come together this Thursday for a conference that celebrates peer work in the community.
‘PeerFest’ is taking place on Thursday 16 October at the Pomme d’Or Hotel from 10:00 until 16:00.
The event is being hosted by The Peer Network in collaboration with local mental-health charity Mind Jersey.
The Peer Network is made up of islanders with lived experience who say their “vision is of a community that recognises and values the concept of people with lived experience supporting others with their health and recovery”.
A spokesperson from Mind Jersey said: “Peers are equals by experience who have been impacted by their own poor mental health or that of their family or friends.”
“They use their lived experience to support others, to challenge stigma and to shape and enhance services,” they continued.
The event will feature talks and presentations, including musical and poetic performances and stories of hope by mental-health service users.
Andy Weir, Director of Mental Health and Adult Social Care for Jersey, will also be giving a presentation on the island’s Mental Health Strategy.
This is followed by a talk by Katie Hargreaves, who will describe her experience as a carer.
Organisers hope the event will provide islanders who have lived experience a platform to share their experience and network with other ‘peers’.
Mind Jersey said: “Peerfest is a celebration of peer work that goes on around the island.”
“Peer work, and placing value on the lived experience of mental illness and mental health, is the cornerstone of the recovery of many people around the world.”
“We are taking a day to celebrate this essential work that happens in Jersey.”
“Together, the Peer Network will champion anyone who works in a peer capacity.”