How can you include diverse perspectives in a peer support group?

1 Acknowledge diversity

The first step to including diverse perspectives in a peer support group is to acknowledge that diversity exists and that it matters. Diversity is not something to be ignored, avoided, or minimized, but rather something to be celebrated, appreciated, and learned from. By acknowledging diversity, you can create a space where people feel comfortable to share their stories, opinions, and experiences without fear of judgment, rejection, or discrimination. You can also show that you value and respect the differences among your group members and that you are willing to listen and learn from them.

2 Seek feedback

The second step to including diverse perspectives in a peer support group is to seek feedback from your group members on how they feel about the group's dynamics, activities, and goals. Feedback can help you identify the strengths and weaknesses of your group, as well as the areas where you can improve or adapt. You can seek feedback through various methods, such as surveys, polls, discussions, or suggestions boxes. The key is to make sure that you invite feedback from everyone, not just the vocal or dominant members, and that you are open and responsive to the feedback you receive.

3 Encourage participation

The third step to including diverse perspectives in a peer support group is to encourage participation from all your group members. Participation can enhance the sense of belonging, engagement, and empowerment among your group members, as well as the quality and diversity of the support they receive and offer. You can encourage participation by using various strategies, such as asking open-ended questions, inviting different opinions, assigning roles or tasks, offering choices or options, or using icebreakers or games. The main goal is to make sure that everyone has a chance to contribute, express, and interact in the group.

4 Address conflicts

The fourth step to including diverse perspectives in a peer support group is to address conflicts that may arise among your group members due to their different backgrounds, beliefs, or values. Conflicts can be harmful or constructive, depending on how they are handled. If they are ignored, suppressed, or escalated, they can damage the trust, cohesion, and safety of the group. If they are resolved, managed, or transformed, they can enrich the understanding, respect, and collaboration of the group. You can address conflicts by using various techniques, such as active listening, empathizing, clarifying, reframing, or mediating. The main aim is to make sure that everyone feels heard, respected, and valued in the group.

5 Promote learning

The fifth step to including diverse perspectives in a peer support group is to promote learning among your group members about the different cultures, identities, and experiences that they represent. Learning can foster curiosity, awareness, and appreciation for the diversity of your group, as well as reduce stereotypes, biases, and prejudices. You can promote learning by using various resources, such as books, articles, videos, podcasts, or guest speakers. The main idea is to make sure that everyone has an opportunity to learn, share, and grow in the group.

6 Celebrate diversity

The sixth and final step to including diverse perspectives in a peer support group is to celebrate diversity among your group members. Celebrating diversity can reinforce the positive and supportive atmosphere of your group, as well as the recognition and acceptance of the differences among your group members. You can celebrate diversity by using various activities, such as festivals, potlucks, crafts, or music. The main purpose is to make sure that everyone feels welcomed, appreciated, and included in the group.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?