Mobile: 087-6626718
Office: 066-4011110
Email
denise@connectwell.ie
PEER SUPPORT
WHAT IS PEER SUPPORT?
Peer support is when people with shared experiences come together to support one another. In mental health, it means individuals who have faced similar challenges - whether personally or through supporting a loved one - connect in a safe and understanding environment.
Unlike traditional Mental Health Services, Peer Support is not medical or clinical. We do not diagnose, prescribe, or replace professional care. Instead, we offer an additional layer of support - one based on mutual respect, shared experiences, and understanding. Peer Support Groups provide a safe space where people can talk openly without fear of judgment, build connections, and learn from others who truly understand what they are going through.
BENEFITS OF A PEER SUPPORT GROUP
Why Attend a Peer Support Group?
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There are many benefits to joining a peer support group:
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A Safe and Understanding Space – Talk openly with others who have been through lived experiences and truly understand.
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An Additional Support, Not a Replacement – Peer support works alongside Mental Health Services, offering a community of understanding and encouragement.
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Reduce Feelings of Isolation – Knowing you're not alone can be reassuring and empowering.
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Share & Learn – Gain new coping strategies, hear different perspectives, and share what has helped you.
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Build Confidence & Resilience – Being part of a supportive group can help strengthen your self-belief and ability to manage challenges.
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No Pressure, Just Support – You can participate at your own pace - whether you prefer to share or just listen.
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Peer Support is about Connection, Understanding, and Hope. No matter where you are on your journey, you are welcome.
"Don’t let the fear of failure stop you from trying. Just believe and you are half-way there"
OUR PEER SUPPORT GROUPS
At ConnectWell, we offer welcoming and supportive Peer Support Groups in community settings across Cork and Kerry. These groups provide a safe space where you can share experiences, connect with others who understand, and find encouragement on your recovery journey.
Our meetings are completely free, open to anyone over 18 years, and require no appointment or referral needed - just walk in when you're ready. Whether you are living with mental health challenges, supporting a loved one, or simply looking to develop skills for maintaining good mental well-being, you are welcome here. Our groups offer understanding, respect, and confidentiality, creating a space where no one has to face their struggles alone. Come as you are - you will be met with support and acceptance.
HOW PEER SUPPORT FITS INTO YOUR MENTAL HEALTH JOURNEY
Peer Support is not a replacement for professional or clinical Mental Health Services - it’s a complementary support that works alongside them. It’s not therapy, counselling, or medical advice. Instead, it offers something different: connection through shared lived experience, and support from people who have walked a similar path.
You might attend a Peer Support Group while also seeing your GP, Therapist, or Mental Health Team. You might come along while waiting for services, after a hospital stay, or simply as part of maintaining your wellness. There’s no right time - just the right space.
Peer Support can:
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Bridge the gaps between formal supports
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Ease isolation by connecting you with others who understand
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Support self-advocacy and confidence when navigating services
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Help you feel human, not just a diagnosis or service user
At ConnectWell, we recognise that everyone’s journey looks different. Peer support offers companionship and understanding, no matter where you are on that journey.
"Nothing is “Impossible”. The word itself says "I’m Possible"
CONNECTWELL PEER SUPPORT GROUPS - WHEN & WHERE?
KERRY
TRALEE Every Wednesday 10:30-11:30 AM Rahoonane Community Centre V92 D9HF.
CASTLEISLAND Every Tuesday 7-8 PM SVP, FRC, Church St, Castleisland, V92 VCA3
KENMARE Every Monday 1:30-3:30 PM Kenmare FRC, Railway Rd, Kenmare, V93 K580
CAHERSIVEEN Every Monday (except bank holidays) 10:30 -11:30 am
South West Kerry FRC, Main St, Cahersiveen, V23 A393
MENTAL HEALTH UNIT, UHK, Tralee, (In-patients only) weekly.
KILLORGLIN - FRC, Market Street, V93 V525 COMING SOON
CORK
BANTRY- Wednesday Fortnightly 10am-12 pm Bridge Street Community Café, Bantry, P75EC42. Call 087 6074908
SKIBBEREEN - Thursday Fortnightly, 2-4pm North Street, Skibbereen, Co. Cork, P81ND89 Text 086 8916619 or email skibbpeers@gmail.com
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Are you Interested in Establishing or Co-Facilitating a Peer Support Group in your local area? Contact us and ask about the Peer Leadership Training Programme and the support ConnectWell can provide.
"Hearing others talk openly about their mental health helped me open up too. I’ve made genuine connections that continue to support me every week."
PEER SUPPORT GROUP TESTIMONIALS
"For the first time in a long time, I felt like I belonged. The group gave me a space where I could just be myself—no pressure, no judgement."
"I used to think I had to cope on my own. Now I know I don’t. The support and understanding in the group changed everything for me."
CONTACT US!
WE'D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU
Whether you would like to learn more about our Peer Support Groups or are interested in our Peer Leadership training, please feel free to contact us using the form below. A member of our team will get back to you as soon as possible.