Who supports the Peer Supporter?

Last updated 10 November 2026

In short

Agree three roles before you start - a sponsor, a programme lead and an escalation lead - so no Peer Supporter carries this work alone.

Supporting colleagues in distress is tiring. If a Peer Supporter does it alone, they can burn out, and then no one is there for the next person.

Agree three roles before you start A sponsor, usually a senior leader who backs the work; a programme lead, often a Champion, who runs it day to day; and an escalation lead, who receives serious concerns. Even in a small team, one person can hold more than one role.
Debrief after distressing conversations The Peer Supporter should debrief with the escalation lead.
Hold group check-ins every month or two, in larger organisations. Supporters can talk about what is hard without identifying anyone, and say how they themselves are coping.
In larger organisations, make sure supporters can use your EAP or national services themselves.
In larger organisations, plan a refresher at least once a year, as skills fade without use, and use practice scenarios in group meetings.

Let supporters step back or step down at any time, with no reason needed. This is another reason to appoint more than one.
Encourage them to meet Peer Supporters and Champions from other industries through the Well-being Champions Network.
People Leaders and Safety Leaders running this work with small teams need the same support: protected time, someone to talk to and time to rest built into their role.

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See all questions. This is general guidance, not legal or clinical advice. Can’t find your answer? Email hello@wellbeingchampions.sg.