Peer support will be “critical” in improving mental health and wellbeing in Scotland and helping recovery from covid-19, according to a new report.

The Scottish Recovery Network says enabling people with similar life experiences to offer each other help should be at the heart of future mental health support.

A report published by the network, which is hosted by mental health charity Penumbra, has highlighted the findings of 12 online conversation cafes which brought people together to talk about how they have coped with the challenges of covid-19.

Participants suggested those with experience of mental health challenges were more prepared to deal with the emotions and fears the pandemic brought and recognise when others were struggling.

“Those of us who had experience of going through tough time prior to covid have been able to use this experience to support others,” one said.

The way in which people in communities have supported each other during lockdown is one of the positive aspects of the experience of lockdown, the report suggests.

“Support was sometimes as simple as a letter, dropping off supplies or a short telephone conversation to check in and see if they had any support needs.

“As well as remote services provided by formal peer workers, many peer-led groups are providing mutual spaces for sharing lived experiences.

“Supporting people to connect, build confidence and increase self-esteem.

“In the simplest term letting people know they are not alone.”

The Scottish government recently unveiled a blueprint to deal with the psychological fallout from the pandemic.

Louise Christie, Acting Director of the Scottish Recovery Network said while the idea of peer support is not new, it needs far more recognition and funding.

“The Build Back better report cements the power of peer support to really help people,” she said.

“It offers an insight into how peer approaches could provide new and better ways for people to access mental health support when they need it and where they need it

“Lived experience and peer support needs to move into the heart or mainstream of our mental health and wellbeing support system.”

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