Defining the Characteristics and Focus of a Peer Group

TASK ONE

Identifying the characteristics of your peer group

Turn to page 2 of your workbook. 

In this task you are going to think about things you want your group members to have in common. On page 3 you will see a diagram 

• Add characteristics to the ‘members’ circle  –  e.g female, actors
• Think about characteristics that you can’t include in your group. Add these to the ‘not appropriate for’ circle e.g. male actors
• Consider other characteristics that aren’t essential to join your group but are important to think about. Put these in the ‘important to consider’ box. Examples include: age, experience or location 

TASK TWO

Now turn to page 4 of your workbook

Within the peer group you hope to lead: 

• Who is giving and receiving peer support? 
• What are the shared experiences?
• Do people who join have more than one kind of experience in common? E.g. performers with young children
• What are the challenges (if any) of focusing on these shared experiences?

TASK THREE

Deciding on the focus/aim of your peer group

Turn to p5 of the workbook and consider these questions. 

1. What is the aim of the peer group you would like to set up? If you’re not sure yet don’t worry, just pick one as an example e.g.  reducing social isolation, giving peers an opportunity to openly discuss their experiences?
2. How will you communicate the aim of the group to others?
3. What skills or experience are needed for running this type of group? 

You have now reached the end of lesson one – congratulations. Take a break or continue with lesson 2.