The Peer2Peer Overdose Response program connects individuals affected by drug/alcohol poisoning with someone who has relevant lived experience. Our Peer Recovery Coaches are based in community, RAAM clinics, and in hospital in order to connect promptly with individuals with substance-related concerns, including drug/alcohol poisoning. The Peer Recovery Coach is also available to those experiencing harm related to substance abuse.
Peer Recovery Coaches at Emergency Rooms
Peer Recovery Coach provides support to individuals and their friends/families following a hospital presentation related to substance use, drug poisoning, and/or overdose. As part of the Peer Led Overdose Response program (P2P), the Peer Recovery Coach brings a unique, non-traditional perspective that offers practical and emotional support and a sense of hope, as individuals and families work through the first several days after an overdose and identify how they want to move forward.
The Peer Recovery Coaches are based at Grand River Hospital, Cambridge Memorial Hospital and Guelph General Hospital and respond when an individual is brought to the Emergency Department, providing care, support, education, and information in a timely manner. The Peer Recovery Coach will provide support to the individual and their family/friends while in hospital and briefly (for approximately 10 days) following discharge to support links to community resources and supports.
The Peer Recovery Coach provides:
- Emotional support
- Overdose prevention education
- Information about services/supports
- Naloxone kits
Why Peer2Peer?
There is increasing evidence that peers – worker with lived experience similar to those they support – has an unique capacity to connect with people who are stigmatized. Through this unique connection, people are able to have more positive and empowering experiencing accessing healthcare. The goal of this program is to reduce repeat overdoses, reduce harm from substance use, and educate and support family and friends.
Contact for P2P
If you’re looking for more information, please contact a Peer Recovery Coach at 519-837-1470 x103