Developing a peer support programme
Living with a rare disease often comes with unique challenges that can be difficult to navigate alone.
Feelings of isolation, uncertainty about treatment options, and the emotional toll of managing a complex health condition are common among patients and their families.
Peer support offers a powerful solution to these challenges by connecting individuals who share similar experiences, creating a sense of understanding, trust, and community.


This guide is designed to help rare disease patient groups establish and maintain successful peer support programmes.
Peer support involves individuals with similar health conditions coming together to share experiences, provide emotional support, and exchange practical advice.
Whether conducted in-person, online, or through a hybrid approach, peer support programmes can significantly improve participants’ mental well-being, foster meaningful social connections, and empower individuals to manage their condition more effectively.
With thanks to the Funders of The Empowerment Programme 2024/2025
Resource type
Course
Skill level
Beginner
Duration
1-2 hours
Last updated
March 2025
Resource type
Course
Skill level
Beginner
Duration
1-2 hours
Last updated
March 2025
What will you learn in this course?
- What is required to create a successful peer support programme
- How to ensure that a peer support programme will be beneficial to your community
- The benefits of peer support programmes
- Case studies of success stories
Who is this course for?
This course is for patient groups who want to establish and maintain a successful peer support programme, whether the programme is conducted in-person, online, or through a hybrid approach.
The guide provides case studies from rare disease patient groups who are currently running a peer support programme to offer practical advice and strategies to hopeful rare leaders.

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