Offering information, companionship, emotional support and encouragement, via the telephone, to peers living with MS
What is Peer Support?
This Peer Support Program offers information, companionship, emotional support and encouragement, via the telephone, to peers living with MS. The Program matches trained volunteers who are living with MS with others with MS or family members. People living with MS, may experience a wide variety of strong emotions, beginning with initial symptoms, through diagnosis, and continuing throughout life with the disease. Peer Support can be a great help by creating a unique supportive connection through a common bond.
Who are the Peer Support Volunteers?
Peer Support volunteers are caring, compassionate individuals who have been living with MS for a least two years and exhibit positive coping skills. They have excellent listening and communication skills, good interpersonal skills, and the ability to follow through on commitments. Peer Support volunteers receive extensive training, and ongoing support and supervision from Chapter staff.
Want to Become a Peer Support Volunteer?
Many people with MS and their families seek support, understanding, information, and guidance from others that experience common circumstances. Peer Support Volunteers help by providing a safe environment for people to discuss the emotions and experiences associated with MS.
The coping strategies you have developed by living with MS are tools that will allow you help others.
Peer Support Volunteers are required to attend a three day training program. Topics include:
- Learning about multiple sclerosis
- Communication and listening skills
- Crisis intervention
- Programs and services available through the National MS Society.
Volunteers are asked to make a one-year commitment to the program, and must have MS for at least two years or have a family member with MS for at least two years.
How do I Participate?
There is no cost to participate in the Peer Support Program. If you are seeking support, and would like to be connected to Peer Support Volunteer or are interested in becoming a Peer Support Volunteer, please contact the National MS Society, Central New England Chapter:
- Phone: 1-800-344-4867, option 1
- Email: generalmailbox@nmss.org