Mary, Brit and Nicola work together to plan our Peer Support programme and run sessions and workshops. We find out more about the work they do.
Mary, Peer Support Lead
I am the Peer Support Lead. This means that I create the Peer Support programme. And I help make sure it runs smoothly. I also go to the Peer Support sessions and workshops to help make sure they run smoothly. You will see me in person and online groups.
You will see me in person and online groups until the middle of May. After that, I’ll be leaving Future Pathways to do a different role. The Peer Support programme will not change at all. It will be run by Brit and Nicola who are wonderful members of the Peer Support Team.
Brit, Engagement Coordinator
I am the Engagement Coordinator. My role is to give administrative support to the Peer Support Team. I manage the Peer Support phone line and email. I help people sign up for sessions and answer any questions. I also organise venues and catering for events.
During Peer Support sessions, I provide safeguarding. This means I help everyone feel safe and supported. Your safety and wellbeing is really important to the Peer Support Team.
Nicola, Peer Support Coordinator
I am the new Peer Support Coordinator. I am thrilled to be here at Future Pathways. I will help support existing groups and help create new ones too. I will also be working on developing new ways we can offer Peer Support.
I am passionate about Peer Support. In my previous jobs, I have helped create peer support communities. These are spaces where people can share their lived experience and everyone’s voice can be heard.
In December, we had a Peer Support workshop at Aberdeen Science Centre (ASC). We chat to Vanessa from ASC to find out more about their work.
Can you tell us a bit about Aberdeen Science Centre?
Aberdeen Science Centre (ASC) is the oldest science centre in Scotland. We are a Scottish charity and have been running for over 35 years. We focus on science, technology, engineering and maths. We want to make these topics accessible, exciting and enjoyable for everyone.
What can we learn about at ASC?
Every year, we engage with over 65,000 people. This includes programmes for the public, schools and in the community. Our team of experts spark people’s curiosity. They want to inspire people, whatever their age or background. They help to turn tricky science into easy-to-understand activities.
Aberdeen Science Centre did one of our Peer Support workshops. Can you tell us more about the different types of workshops you do?
Our Community Team loves bringing science to life. We make our sessions to suit as many people as possible. Our workshops cover all sorts of topics. We do hands-on fun like volcanoes, space, and mixing chemicals. And we also do relaxed, chat-based sessions on mental health, nutrition, and how small healthy choices can make a big difference.
Our recent session with Future Pathways focused on nutrition and healthy eating. But, just as importantly, it gave everyone a chance to chat, connect, and enjoy a safe, welcoming space.
We had an amazing group of adults join us from all over the UK, including Cumbria, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Arbroath, Aberdeen, Inverurie, and York. It was so lovely to see people open up, share ideas, and support each other. We are looking forward to our next adventure!
For a tailored session or any enquiries: community@asc.scot
