Peer support groups and the benefits of sharing experiences

By Chris Salmon | Updated: September 27, 2025

Recovering from a workplace accident can feel isolating. Alongside medical care and financial support, many people benefit from joining peer support groups. Peer support can improve recovery for people with long-term conditions, according to NHS England research (Source: NHS England)

These groups connect people who have faced similar injuries or challenges, creating a space for sharing experiences, advice and encouragement.

At a glance

Peer support groups provide emotional and practical help from people with similar experiences.
Sharing experiences can reduce feelings of isolation and improve confidence in recovery.
Groups may be local, online or linked to national charities.
Participation is usually free and accessible without referral.

What are peer support groups?

Peer support groups are informal networks where people meet to talk about their experiences of injury, treatment and recovery. They may be run by volunteers, charities or community organisations. Some groups focus on specific injuries, such as spinal injuries or hearing loss, while others are broader and cover general workplace accident recovery.

The benefits of peer support

Emotional support: Talking to others who understand can reduce stress and feelings of isolation.
Practical advice: Members often share tips on managing symptoms, accessing benefits and dealing with employers.
Motivation and confidence: Hearing how others have overcome challenges can encourage a positive outlook.
Social connection: Many groups offer social activities, which can help rebuild confidence and routine after time off work.

How to find a group

There are several ways to find peer support:

Ask your doctor or hospital for local group recommendations.
Search online for condition-specific charities, such as Headway for brain injury or Back Up Trust for spinal injury.
Check with Citizens Advice or your local council for community-based groups.
Join online forums and social media groups for flexibility if travel is difficult.

Real-world example

A warehouse worker who developed post-traumatic stress after a forklift accident joined a local peer support group. By meeting others who had gone through similar experiences, he learned coping strategies, gained reassurance about his recovery, and was encouraged to seek professional counselling. This combination of peer support and therapy helped him return to work with greater confidence.

Are groups confidential?

Most peer support groups encourage confidentiality. Members are expected to respect each other’s privacy. Before joining, you can ask the organiser about the group’s approach to confidentiality and safeguarding.

Getting the most from peer support

While peer groups are not a substitute for professional medical or legal advice, they are a valuable source of practical guidance and encouragement. Combining professional treatment with peer support often leads to a stronger recovery journey.

About the author

Chris Salmon is a legal commentator and co-founder of Quittance Legal Services. He has written extensively about workplace accidents, employment rights and the claims process. Chris's work has been cited in national media and he regularly contributes practical guidance to help injured workers understand their options.

More about Chris and WAAC

Last reviewed September 2025 by Chris Salmon

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