What Is Peer Support?
At its heart, peer support is simple: people helping people through shared experiences. Peer support is a form of emotional and practical assistance provided by individuals who have lived experience with similar challenges, whether mental health difficulties, grief, recovery, or major life transitions.
Rather than a traditional “professional-client” dynamic, peer support is grounded in mutual understanding, empathy, and collaboration. Both the supporter and the person receiving support contribute to a relationship built on:
- Shared experience
- Non-judge mental listening
- Trust and confidentiality
- Respect and equality
Peer supporters don’t diagnose, prescribe, or “fix” problems. Instead, they walk alongside someone, offering empathy, active listening, and practical strategies that help them in their own journey. This creates a unique space where people feel understood, validated, and empowered to take steps toward wellbeing.
Why Peer Support is Important
Peer support is powerful because it:
- Reduces stigma by normalising open conversations about mental health
- Builds community through genuine human connection
- Promotes hope by showing that recovery is possible
- Encourages self-advocacy and resilience
- Creates safe, supportive environments where people feel seen and heard
Research consistently shows that peer support can increase confidence, motivation, and overall wellbeing – often in ways that complement traditional mental health services rather than replace them.
Our Peer Support Team
Our Peer Support Team is made up of compassionate, trained individuals who bring diverse experiences and strengths to their roles. What unites them is a deep commitment to supporting others with empathy, authenticity, and respect.
Andrew – Solace Cafe Service Coordinator & Peer Support Worker
Andrew joined the team at LMHA in early 2024. After spending over a decade working in hospitality management in the United States, Andrew returned to Ireland to pursue an education in Social Studies and Psychology. This led to redirecting his career toward Community Mental Health. Now in the role of Peer Support Worker, Andrew has been involved in supporting and signposting many individuals on their mental health recovery journeys.
“I am proud to contribute to a service that offers a safe, helpful space for people in the Limerick community. My experiences as part of the team at LMHA have deepened my commitment to person-centred care and strengthened my belief in the power of connection. I am passionate about empowering personal recovery, and ensuring that everyone who walks through those doors feel seen, heard, and supported.”
Urvi – Solace Cafe Service Coordinator & Peer Support Worker
“Hi, I’m Urvi Pundir, Supervisor/Service Coordinator at Solace Café. I am originally from India, and very delighted to be a dedicated member of Limerick Mental Health Association (LMHA) community since moving to Ireland two years ago. My journey here began with the pursuit of my MSc in Psychological Science from the University of Limerick.
My professional life is rooted in practical support and leadership. My key responsibilities include line management, staff supervision, and volunteer coordination, ensuring the delivery of a safe and high-quality support service. This involves providing crucial one-to-one and group support.
For two years, I volunteered as an Art Class Facilitator and Peer Supporter with LMHA, which has given me priceless life experience, further strengthening my understanding of the needs within our community. Coupled with my year experience as an Assistant Lecturer at TUS and prior work as a Healthcare Assistant in India, I bring a unique blend of academic knowledge, leadership capability, and compassionate, hands-on care.
As a Solace cafe supervisor and peer supporter, I am committed to psychological well-being, staff development, and quality service delivery. I am very pleased to contribute my passion and expertise to support Solace Café’s vital work and continue growing alongside this supportive community.”
Elizabeth – Peer Support Worker
“Hi! I am Lizzy, I’m in my final year of sociology in U.L and I have recently joined the Solace Café team as a Peer Support Worker, bringing lived experience and a strong commitment to compassionate, person-centred support. With a particular focus on trauma and eating disorders, I draw on both personal insight and practical training to support visitors in moments of distress. After two years of volunteering with Limerick Mental Health Association, I am now officially part of the team, continuing the work of creating a safe, calm and empowering space for anyone seeking support.”
Fiona – Peer Support Worker
With her own lived experience and a warm, down-to-earth approach, she is here to offer understanding, encouragement, and a listening ear to anyone finding things tough. She is passionate about creating a safe, supportive space where people feel heard and never alone. We’re excited for the compassion and positivity she will bring to our community. With over 15 years experience working with the public and people from all walks of life Fiona is open to meeting new people who may be struggling.
“As a peer support worker here in LMHA I am someone who’s been through their own mental health ups and downs and truly gets what you’re feeling. With over 10 years experience working one to one with people I’m here to listen without judgment and remind you that you’re not alone. By sharing my own experiences when helpful. I will help things feel a little less overwhelming and a lot more human. I can point you toward helpful tools or supports when you feel ready. Most of all,I am someone who’ll walk beside you and offer hope when things feel tough.”
Emily – Peer Support Worker
Emily has over eight years of experience in supportive roles and three years as a qualified Special Needs Assistant, Emily brings valuable insight, kindness, and a natural ability to connect with others. Her warm personality and clear, open communication style make her a wonderful fit for our team. We’re very happy to have her with us and look forward to the positive energy she will bring to our community.
“I am a qualified Special Needs Assistant with three years of experience and over eight years working in supportive and educational environments. Now, as a Peer Support Worker with LMHA , I draw on my lived experience, empathy, and strong communication skills to build genuine, trusting relationships. I’m naturally chatty and have a good sense of humour, which helps me create a safe and welcoming space for the people I support. I’m also known for being clear, direct, and grounded, traits that allow me to advocate confidently, encourage honest conversations, and help others feel truly heard. I’m passionate about empowerment and promoting dignity and connection in every interaction.”
Get in Touch
If you’d like to connect with one of our Peer Support Workers, we’re here for you.
You can reach us by:
Phone: 085 261 2025
Email: info@limerickmentalhealth.ie
Whether you have a question, need a listening ear, or want to learn more about our peer support services, don’t hesitate to get in contact. We’re always happy to help.