A pilot initiative to strengthen our professional community

 

UPCA has an amazing membership group of engaged and committed therapists. We want to draw on this community to create meaningful opportunities for members to support one another when life throws up unexpected challenges.

 

In recent years, the Council has become increasingly aware of some of the difficulties therapists may face – such as complaints from former clients, harassment or stalking, health issues, financial strain, or navigating the transition to retirement. In response, we are launching a new Peer-Support Scheme, rooted in care, collegiality and mutual respect.

About the Scheme

  • This is a pilot scheme, offered on a voluntary basis, and open to accredited members of UPCA.
  • Support will be offered in an informal and supportive way – think of it as a cup of tea and a chat, rather than therapy.
  • The scheme is online, making it accessible to members regardless of location.
  • Each member can access the support up to two times per year, for a maximum of four sessions per use.
  • The UPCA Council will pair members with an appropriate peer supporter, based on area of need and availability.
  • Peer supporters will not be expected to provide more than two support sessions per year.
  • To ensure support is in place for those offering their time, each peer supporter will be buddied up with a member of the UPCA Council for check-ins and guidance.
  • Supporters won’t be acting as therapists – their role is to listen, be present, and help point peers in the direction of further support if needed.
  • If the pilot is successful, there is potential for paid roles to be introduced in the future.

We are proud to share that all members of the UPCA Council have volunteered to take part in this scheme, and we warmly invite other UPCA members to consider offering their time and experience as well.

 

To help everyone feel confident and prepared, we will host a short orientation gathering for all volunteers at the start of the scheme.

 

If you would like to volunteer as a peer supporter, please let us know if there are any specific areas you’re happy to support others with.

 

We believe this scheme can enhance our community and continue to build a strong relational culture of care and collegiality within UPCA.

 

If you’re interested in being involved, please send an email to Helen (administration@upca.org.uk), the UPCA administrator, for the attention of the Chair, Oktober Evennett.

Disclaimer:
This is a peer-support initiative and not a therapeutic, supervisory, or legal service. Peer supporters are not acting as therapists, supervisors, or legal professionals, and no clinical or legal advice will be provided. Any support offered is informal, collegial, and intended to provide emotional encouragement and signposting where appropriate. UPCA holds no liability for decisions made as a result of peer-support interactions and encourages all members to seek appropriate professional, legal, or therapeutic help when needed.