Blog: peer support network tackles stress in west central London

Common mental health concerns, such as stress, anxiety, low mood or sleep problems, manifest themselves in different ways in different people, and sometimes it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and like you’re facing these challenges alone. Being able to talk to others who may have similar or shared experiences can be a vital lifeline to reduce the feeling of isolation, particularly whilst waiting for more formal mental health support.

West Central London Mind’s Community Living Well Peer Support network is helping residents of Kensington and Chelsea to reduce isolation, make new connections and access support based on their own personal and shared experiences of mental health concerns.

“Our Community Living Well Peer Support service offers a way forward without the wait” explains Daisy Petrow, Digital Communications Officer at West Central London Mind.

“Our service provides a welcoming space where residents can connect with others who understand what they’re going through, share experiences, and find mutual support.

“Talking about your feelings with people who truly understand can help relieve stress and improve mental wellbeing. Many service users have found the network to have had a truly life-changing impact that has reduced stress, anxiety and feelings of isolation and loneliness, knowing that they’re not facing their challenges alone.”

The Community Living Well Peer Support network operates on both a self-referral and GP referral basis, with no waiting times to join the groups, workshops, or activities, once a resident has registered.

The service also empowers individuals to develop strategies to manage stress, build resilience, and gain confidence in their ability to cope with life’s challenges. Participants are encouraged to form connections that help them to build the skills they need for independent living and long-term wellbeing.

Stuart Beck, Senior Peer Support Coordinator at West Central London Mind: "It has been a real privilege to work as a part of the Peer Support service over the years, seeing what a positive impact it has had on improving people's wellbeing and mental health, and how it has provided opportunity for so many people to connect with others, improve confidence and self-esteem, and make new friends."

The service is offered both online and in-person with a diverse range of peer support mental health groups, wellbeing workshops, one-to-one Peer Support, and social activities, including online meditation, journalling, singing, quizzes, arts & culture, plus in-person walking groups, tea and chat social groups, coffee mornings, film clubs, creative arts, and special trips out such as museums, art galleries, and classical music concerts. The service is completely free to use.

Below are some testimonals from service users:

The Peer Support service has been very supportive and absolutely life-saving.

Before joining Peer Support there was nothing to look forward to. The staff and people there have such friendliness and compassion.

I don’t feel so alone, even when I have other troubles on my mind. It feels like I belong to a family.

Find out more