What digital tools are most effective for peer support in rural areas?

2 Video calls

Another popular and powerful way to access peer support online is through video calls, such as Zoom, Skype, FaceTime, or WhatsApp. Video calls allow you to see and hear your peers in real time, which can enhance your sense of connection, trust, and empathy. You can also use video calls to facilitate group discussions, workshops, trainings, and events that can enrich your peer support experience. Video calls can help you overcome social isolation, loneliness, and stigma that may be common in rural areas. They can also help you save time, money, and travel costs that may be associated with face-to-face peer support. However, video calls also have some challenges, such as technical issues, bandwidth limitations, background noise, and distractions. To use video calls effectively, you need to have a reliable and secure internet connection, a suitable device and software, a comfortable and private space, and a clear and respectful communication etiquette. For example, you can test your equipment and connection before the call, mute yourself when not speaking, use headphones or earphones, and avoid multitasking or interruptions.

3 Text messages

A third option for accessing peer support online is through text messages, such as SMS, email, or chat. Text messages allow you to communicate with your peers in a simple and fast way, without requiring a lot of bandwidth or data. You can also use text messages to send reminders, updates, links, files, or emojis that can support your peer support goals. Text messages can help you maintain regular contact with your peers, check in on their well-being, and offer or request support when needed. They can also help you avoid some of the anxiety or pressure that may come with voice or video calls. However, text messages also have some limitations, such as lack of non-verbal cues, tone, and context, which can lead to misunderstandings, misinterpretations, or conflicts. To use text messages effectively, you need to be clear, concise, and courteous in your messages, and avoid using jargon, slang, or abbreviations that may confuse or offend your peers. For example, you can use proper spelling and grammar, avoid all caps or excessive punctuation, and use emoticons or emojis to convey your emotions.

4 Peer support software

A fourth option for accessing peer support online is through peer support software, such as Peer Support Central, Peer Support Solutions, or Peer Support Network. Peer support software is a specialized type of digital tool that is designed to facilitate and manage peer support programs and activities. Peer support software can help you create and customize your own peer support platform, recruit and train peer supporters, match and connect peers, monitor and evaluate peer support outcomes, and access data and reports. Peer support software can help you improve the quality, efficiency, and impact of your peer support online, and address some of the gaps and challenges that may exist in rural areas. They can also help you comply with ethical and professional standards, and protect the privacy and confidentiality of your peers. However, peer support software also have some costs, such as subscription fees, training requirements, and technical support. To use peer support software effectively, you need to have a sufficient budget, a skilled and dedicated team, and a clear and realistic plan for your peer support online.

5 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?