Peer Support Volunteers
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Peer Support Volunteer
A Peer Support Volunteer is someone who has MS, or is a family member of someone with MS, and has been trained by the National MS Society to provide support over the phone. The volunteer provides the opportunity for someone who has been recently diagnosed or who is having a difficult time coping with the disease, to talk to “someone who understands.” This person does not replace a professional clinician and does not give medical advice. The Peer Support Volunteer helps a person find ways of dealing with their feelings and of coping with the problems that MS is presenting in a confidential, one-to-one environment.
Duties:
Receiving initial training and subsequent refresher trainings.
Maintaining client confidentiality.
Offer support and encouragement by listening and sharing personal insights and experiences.
Provide information about MS, the Chapter and community resources.
Serve as a role model.
Serve as a link between the peer and the Chapter.
Adhere to the policies of the Peer Support Program.
Keep accurate records of phone calls.
Be willing to implement communication techniques, i.e. active listening, learned in training.
Qualifications:
Ability to organize individuals, groups, and meetings
Ability to empathize
Effective verbal communication skills
A desire to help others in a similar situation
Willingness to collaborate with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society
Contact Information:
