A peer support group is a group of people with similar experiences that come together to support each other in a group setting. All members of the group will have had experiences of a loved one either in prison or involved in the Criminal Justice System. 

Pact's peer support groups are run nationally via Zoom twice monthly and are facilitated by a trained member of Pact. Group facilitators are there to support members of the group and facilitate communication. They are also there to ensure everyone is kept safe and that the core values are being upheld at all times. 

Here’s what our service users have said about the groups: 

“Since coming to the support group I have felt like a weight has lifted. I am finally amongst people that understand what I am going through. We could sit in silence for an hour and I would still feel a sense of belonging and understanding  ….. (pact members) have been so supportive and I really feel that my experience and feelings matter. Not only has it been a place so far to express how we all feel but there is extra support in …. finding out information for all of us individually based on our circumstances. Feels nice to have someone fighting a corner for the people that are often as forgotten as our loved ones. Thank you so much “ 

“I just wanted to send you a message to thank you for the support of the Peer Support Group. It is the first time I have accessed support through the prison service and it has made a big difference to me. I wish I had made contact long ago as it is really helpful to know that there are other people out there who understand, can help, and professionals who can signpost. What really helped was your prompt response before I could have second thoughts. Since then I have felt that the service is always there. It has really helped me to have a point of contact and it has given me  a little hope to keep going. Thanks very much” 

“I have found the support groups very helpful. The support from all the group has been amazing & to know you are not the only one going through things that you never thought would happen to your family gives you hope that your family will get through this difficult time even though are life’s have changed forever.   

Thank you to my befriender who suggested that I joined the group when I didn’t know what to do.” 

For more information and group availability please contact Helen Tibby our National Services Administrator who will go through the next steps:  

Tel: 07703 705107  

Email: [email protected]