Did you know? – Peer Advisors

September 2, 2022 - Defence Stories

Did you know that DND has peer support available through the Employee Assistance Program? For the last 40 years, peer support has been provided by fellow DND colleagues, who are eager to help others and are passionate about contributing to a psychologically healthy workplace.

So what is a Peer Advisor anyway? Why use the service? How can you get involved? Continue reading to learn more and check out the Organizational Well-Being SharePoint site (you are now leaving the Government of Canada website).

What is a Peer Advisor?

A Peer Advisor (PA) is an employee who is available during working hours to listen and support their colleagues and identify resources that they could consult or use, at their own discretion. They are trustworthy, approachable and passionate about mental health and well-being.

However, a PA is not a counsellor. They cannot diagnose, counsel, advise, prescribe, or treat an employee, they simply listen, and direct employees to helpful resources, such as where to find these services, and more.

Why use the peer support service?

Have you ever wondered what addiction services are available in your community? Do you have parenting or relationship concerns? Do you feel like your voice isn’t being heard in the workplace? These are some of the frequently discussed topics that Peer Advisors will help you navigate! Peer Advisors are trained to have knowledge of the most relevant internal, professional and community resources and often act as a stepping stone for employees who may otherwise not seek psychosocial support. Services are confidential, and free from judgement.

Who can use the peer support service?

All current Department of National Defence (DND) employees can benefit from this service during working hours. This includes students, casual employees, term and indeterminate employees.

Peer Advisors do not provide support to military members, retired public servants, veterans or family members.

Why become a Peer Advisor?

As a Peer Advisor you get the opportunity to help your colleagues and give back to the Defence Team in a meaningful way.  You get to make connections with your local community and its resources and develop valuable support skills.

How can I get involved?

The Employee Assistance Program is always looking for new volunteer Peer Advisors to join the program. To apply, complete the Peer Advisor Application Form (you are now leaving the Government of Canada website).

Note, you must be a full-time DND employee, and have obtained the support of your supervisor. Learn how to support yourself and others in your workplace by visiting our Organizational Well-Being SharePoint site (you are now leaving the Government of Canada website).

Need more information? Check out our Organizational Well-Being Sharepoint Site (you are now leaving the Government of Canada website) or contact the EAP positional mailbox.

Want to apply? Fill out our Peer Advisor Application Form (you are now leaving the Government of Canada website).