If you’re not collecting stats, then you’re missing out on vital information to share with your team and leadership.
Gathering statistical information (data) from peers can inform your practice. Here’s how:
(1) Use stats to identify which peers are “working” and which are not. As a Peer Support Program Coordinator for my agency, I would identify those that were not consistently reporting stats. At a certain point, I would contact the peer and inquire further.
Sometimes, a peer was going through a difficult themselves – and inquiring about it gave us a chance to talk and provide support to the peer. Other times, I learned that the peer was ineffective and, therefore, the numbers reflected little activity. This gave us a chance to learn more and consider additional training.
Finally, I learned that some peers did not recognize the value of stat reporting and, therefore, did not turn in monthly stats. This gave me a chance to inform my team of the value of their stats and how they are used to benefit our program and the people we serve.
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(2) Use stats to identify key issues that are current and prominent. We used our monthly stats to track trends that concerned our population. As we would see a rise in a particular “stress-area”, we would write articles and share resources on that particular subject (ex. relationship stress, financial stress / debt relief, caregiver stress, etc.).If you’re seeing a number of people with a particular concern (ex. caregiver stress), then it’s a safe bet that there are others in your organization that have similar concerns.
Because we do not collect identifiable information, considering sharing statistical information (as generalized concerns) with leadership, HR, wellness, etc. and coordinate publicizing information, skills and resources people need to meet the challenges they are facing.
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(3) Use stats to identify needs for additional peer training. Basic training is designed to equip peers with foundational, fundamental knowledge and skills to address general issues / concerns. However, a “deep-dive” into stats can reflect need for advanced, issue-specific training.
On our Monthly Stat Collection Form (template), we include a place for peers to identify specific needs / desires for additional training. We also include a place for peers to identify needs for additional resources (ex. hotline number or referral option for specific concern). Finally, we include a section for the peer to request follow up from Coordinator and/or need for personal “debriefing”.
As critical as it is for Coordinator’s care for their peers, they will not know who needs support unless they are informed. As we often say: you can’t help what you don’t know. Therefore, use your stat collection form to solicit additional information from your peers concerning their needs and wellbeing.
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Download our free
“Monthly Stat Log for Individuals”
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For more tips and tools for building / maintaining a sustainable support program – check out our blog.
Looking for additional ideas? Email us to set up a free call: info@crisissupportsolutions.com
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We teach teams how to provide effective mental, emotional, and spiritual support to those in need.