Peer Support

peer support

PEER SUPPORT FOR MEMBERS

Whether you're dealing with a tough time, coping with a traumatic event, or struggling with your mental health, this page is designed to help guide you into finding the support you need.

You don’t have to go through it alone—here, you'll find guidance, resources, and pathways to professional help, peer support, and crisis services. No matter where you are on your journey, SLSQ is here to help you get back on track.

WHAT IS PEER SUPPORT?

Our Peer Support Network is made up of lifesavers who are trained to support their peers. If you are involved in a serious incident, your Patrol Captain will include you in what we call a 'hot debrief'. This debrief will happen on the day of the incident and you will be advised that one of our friendly Peer Support Officers will be in touch within 48 hours.

Our Peer Support Officers will check in with you to see how you're feeling following the incident and will provide you with tools and tips on how to manage the after effects. If you require additional support or resources, they will also provide this information.

HOW DO I ACCESS PEER SUPPORT?

Peer Support is easy to access, and you don’t need to be in crisis to use it. If something has happened on patrol or at a lifesaving activity and you’re feeling affected, you can ask for Peer Support.

You can also reach out directly by emailing [email protected] to request support or ask what your options are.

Once activated, a Peer Support Officer will usually make contact within 48 hours to check in, listen, and help you work out the next best step. If you or someone else is at immediate risk of harm, call 000.

HOW DO I BECOME A PEER SUPPORT OFFICER?

To become a Peer Support Officer, you’ll typically apply through the SLSQ recruitment process and you’ll need support from your Club/Branch leadership as part of the endorsement step.

If successful, you’ll complete the required training and onboarding, then join the PSO network and be rostered/allocated to activations as needed. Once you’re active, you’re expected to maintain confidentiality, stay within the scope of peer support (not counselling), and follow escalation pathways when someone needs professional or urgent support.

Learn more here