The Ontario Public Service Employees Union is looking to put its ‘Boots on the Ground’ in northwestern Ontario.
That’s the name of a peer support program available to public sector workers.
It allows workers to reach out to others if they’re suffering from mental health or emotional trauma.
Spokesperson Sharon Bak says there’s now a toll-free number in place, but they would like a more physical and personable presence in the region.
“We’re looking to recruit at least ten individuals, because then we can have the training up here and actually start a team that can possibly do face-to-face peer support with folks.
Bak notes peer support makes it easier to understand what workers may be going through.
“That value is huge for someone. You don’t have to tell your story over and over. You don’t have to explain things as much as you need to do. It is pure. So, sometimes people are a lot more comfortable talking to peers than they are talking to professionals.”
OPSEU is currently touring the region to promote the program.
Bak and others will be in Dryden today. (Wednesday, July 24th)
There will be a barbecue at the OPP Detachment starting at noon.
Peers Need Peers on its way to @CityofDryden this morning! Come for lunch and hear our speakers! OPP station on Hwy 17 at lunch hour @BootsOTGround @BadgeLifeCanada @CORRPeerSupport @ckdrnews @CKDR_Radio
— Sharon Bak (@SDBak) July 24, 2019
