Our Peer Mentor Program can provide the opportunity to talk and share experiences with someone who has also experienced acquired brain injury (ABI) in a safe, supported and structured way.
This Service is for:
Adjusting to life following traumatic brain injury (TBI) can be confusing, isolating and presents a range of challenges.
What is a Brain Injury SA (BISA) Peer Mentor?
A BISA Peer Mentor is someone who has had a ABI and is open-minded to share their wisdom and lived experience for someone who is new to ABI. A Peer Mentor can provide a safe place to talk about any concerns, fears and offers a non-judgemental ear. They can also support people to reconnect with their community and live a meaningful life.
We believe both Mentors and Mentees are mutually helping and supporting each other.
What is the value to your loved one receiving peer mentor support?
Many people with brain injury may find it easier to talk to their peers first, before they talk to others, including those close to them such as family members or professionals. Research suggests this to be as the insight Peer Mentors develop through their own lived experience establish them as a trusted and credible source of hope and support for people re-engaging in the community post-ABI.
Peer Mentor Support can assist people living with brain injury to:
- Help make sense of what is happening
- Build a sense of hope and self-worth living a changed life
- Foster connection with new social relationships and circles
- Re-integrate into the community
- Expand awareness of community resources
- Cope with feelings of sadness and loss
- Adapt to changing relationships with family members
- Develop self-advocacy skills and confidence
- Reduce the risk of alcohol and substance abuse
- Protect against feelings of hopelessness, isolation and a feeling of being lost in the world
- Reduce dependencies on systems
- Encourage support within the wider community by raising awareness of brain injury
BISA Peer Mentors may be involved in:
- BISA group work – therapeutic and educational groups (e.g. Reconnect Transition Program, Brain Injury Support and Education Group), social groups (e.g. Catch Up) and social events
- Assist in bridging between sub-acute and community service access through one-on-one support
- Include engagement in virtual support – safe online communication and sharing platforms
Are there risks involved and how would your loved one be supported?
The safety and wellbeing of your loved one is paramount. To ensure both the Mentee and Mentor are supported, we have implemented safeguarding measures and ongoing supervision. Feedback will always be welcome and the BISA team can discuss any questions or concerns you may have.
Would you like to know more for yourself or your loved one?
Contact us with your details, referencing Peer Mentoring and someone will be in touch as soon as possible.