What do you do when you need to refer a peer support issue to a professional?

1 Why referrals are important

Referrals are an essential part of peer support, because they help ensure that the people you support receive the best possible care and resources for their needs. Referrals can also protect you from taking on more than you can handle, or crossing ethical or legal boundaries. By referring a peer support issue to a professional, you are not abandoning or rejecting the person, but rather showing respect for their autonomy and well-being.

2 When to refer a peer support issue

When to refer a peer support issue to a professional is not always clear cut, but there are some common indicators to consider. If the person is in crisis or at risk of harming themselves or others, if they have a serious mental or physical health condition that requires medical attention or treatment, if they are experiencing abuse, violence, or neglect and need legal or social protection, if they are struggling with substance use or addiction and need specialized support or intervention, or if they express a desire or need for professional help that you cannot provide, then it may be time to refer the issue to a professional.

3 How to prepare for a referral

Before you make a referral, it's important to prepare yourself and the person you support. You should ask for their consent and involvement in the referral process and explain why you think it's necessary and beneficial. Additionally, gather relevant information about the person's situation, needs, goals, and preferences. This may include personal details, medical history, current challenges, coping strategies, and support network. Research potential professionals or services that match the person's needs and preferences, taking into account factors like availability, accessibility, affordability, quality, and reputation. Finally, contact the chosen professional or service to make a referral request. Provide the necessary information and documentation and confirm the details and expectations of the referral.

4 How to make a referral

Making a successful referral requires ongoing communication and follow-up. Firstly, involve the person you are supporting in the process as much as possible. Encourage them to ask questions, express concerns, and share feedback. Communicate clearly and respectfully with the professional or service you are referring to. Respect the confidentiality and privacy of the person you support, and only share what is relevant and necessary. After the referral, follow up with the person you support and the professional or service to check in on how it went. Provide ongoing peer support and encouragement, and address any issues or challenges that arise. Lastly, evaluate the outcome and impact of the referral to assess whether it met the person's needs and expectations, and improved their situation and well-being. Celebrate their achievements and progress, and acknowledge your own contribution and learning.

5 How to deal with challenges or barriers

Sometimes, you may encounter challenges or barriers when making a referral, such as the person being reluctant or resistant to accept a referral, the professional or service being unavailable, inaccessible, unaffordable, or unsuitable, or the referral process being complicated, confusing, or delayed. These issues can be discouraging, but there are strategies to deal with them. For example, listen empathically and respectfully to the person you support and validate their concerns and fears. Seek out other professionals or services that may be more suitable or accessible. Simplify and streamline the referral process as much as possible. Monitor and review the referral outcome and impact regularly. Also, advocate for the person you support if they face discrimination or injustice from a professional or service. Offer step-by-step guidance and reminders if needed, coordinate with other peer support workers involved in the referral process, and identify and address any problems or gaps. Celebrate any positive changes or improvements and learn from any negative experiences or mistakes.

6 How to take care of yourself

As a peer support worker, making a referral can be both rewarding and challenging. It is important to take care of yourself and practice self-care when dealing with difficult or complex issues. Setting and maintaining healthy boundaries with the person you support and the professionals or services you refer to is essential. Communicate your role, limits, and expectations clearly, and respect those of others. Additionally, seek and accept support from other workers, colleagues, or supervisors. Sharing experiences, feelings, and thoughts can be helpful. Participate in peer supervision, mentoring, or coaching to learn from others' best practices and challenges. Engaging in activities that nourish physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health is also important. Find what works for you and make it a part of your routine. Finally, recognize and celebrate your achievements as a peer support worker. Acknowledge the positive impact you have on the lives of others, and reward yourself for your efforts.

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?