A group of mentors who use their own experience of recovery to support people affected by drug and alcohol issues have been celebrated at a graduation event in Taunton today.
The event marked the end of the Somerset Drugs and Alcohol (SDAS) Peer Mentor Programme and graduates were joined by family members, treatment providers, community partners, and stakeholders. Gideon Amos, MP for Taunton and Wellington, also attended.
The programme provides training and development opportunities for individuals with lived experience of recovery. Peer mentors offer non-clinical support, encouragement, and guidance to people accessing drug and alcohol services.
Councillor Evie Potts-Jones, Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Public Health, said:
“Today’s graduation celebrates courage, resilience, and lived experience from our Peer Mentors.
The graduates have used their own recovery journeys to help others. They are inspiring role models in their communities. We are very proud of everything they have achieved.”
Graduates shared personal reflections on their journey, describing how the programme had increased their confidence, strengthened their recovery, and enabled them to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
How peer mentors support recovery
Peer mentors play a vital role in supporting individuals throughout their recovery journey. Drawing on their own lived experience, mentors provide encouragement, practical guidance, and hope to those accessing treatment and recovery services, helping them:
- Build confidence
- Stay focused on recovery goals
- Reconnect with their communities
Training and achievement
The event recognised the graduates’ hard work, commitment, and personal growth. Each person completed training in:
- Communication
- Boundaries
- Safeguarding
- Supporting others safely
Joseph Olubodun, SDAS Peer Mentors/Volunteers and Get Connected Team Manager, said:
“Today marks one of the most inspiring events in the SDAS calendar as we celebrate recovery, resilience and the incredible achievements of our Peer Mentors at their graduation ceremony.
“Each graduate stood before friends, family and peers to share their recovery journey with honesty, courage and determination.
“Together, we recognise not only how far they’ve come, but the positive impact they will have on others beginning their own recovery journey.”
The Peer Mentor Programme is part of wider work to build strong recovery communities in Somerset. It also gives people with lived experience the chance to make a positive difference to local health and wellbeing services.
