Conference Abstract

Starting A Youth Peer Led Support Group. J Mayo, T Bettencourt. BAY Positives.

90 Minute Workshop

Category: Adolescents & Young People

Presentation Date & Time: 03/25/98 15:45:00

As an agency run by and for young people living with HIV, Bay Positives understands the dynamics and issues that occur with HIV positive youth, both in and out of support groups. Our workshop will consist of a facilitated group discussion around the power of a peer led support group, how the group works, the importance of outside support, and how to provide a safe space for young people living with HIV to discuss their feelings. This will serve as also an effective tool to help young people gain knowledge, become more empowered and develop comprehensive strategies for strong collaboration building. The workshop is to teach care providers of HIV positive youth practical tools to guide and support young people in starting peer led support groups. Not only will the workshop focus on how to set up the structure, emphasis will be placed on the dynamics and effectiveness of a peer led support group. The facilitators will share personal experiences in developing and facilitating support groups. In that, participants will come away being able to identify at least five steps in creating a successful, ongoing process for developing their own peer led model of support.