P e e r   C o u n s e l i n g    S e r v i c e

 

THE VISION

To have a dynamic pro-active chaplaincy reaching out to aid officers in need, through respect, mutual support and grounded in love for one    another.

THE MISSION

To seize every opportunity to enhance and maintain the optional wellness of the Force, thereby achieving continued organizational growth.

WHO ARE PEER COUNSELORS

Peer Counselors are an extension of the chaplaincy Unit of the Force.  It is  intended to provide swift access to trained police colleagues for     personal and emotional help, in times of trauma and crises.

Why Peer Counselors?

· Police work is very demanding, stressful and sometimes traumatic         environments.

· The geographic nature of our country makes it difficult and costly to       provide  full-time  chaplains on every  island.

· Police officers are human, and will require  at times swift assistance at short notice due to the conditions of work.

· Peer counseling creates a more concern and caring environment that    results in a healthier, and more effective and efficient police officers and force.

What is Peer Counseling?

Peer counseling is “Police helping and Caring for police.”  Peers are trained. First responders in times of stress and distress.  They provide support until the Chaplain or Medical Unit can step in.  Your peer      counselor will know when to Call or refer you to the Chaplain for a     Specialist assistance.

 

Objectives

· To encourage the holistic health and wellness of members of the Police Force.

· To take preventative and pro-active action, where required, in order to maintain positive mental and emotional health of the force.

· To have a “presence” for our peers in times of need.

· To facilitate coping and decision making skills that will enhance self and other responsibility.

Who needs Peer Counseling?

· Officers scattered over the Bahamas who first need a listening ear close at hand.

· Officers who are in distress because of sickness, death, chronic illness, transfers, lack of promotion, family issues, financial problems, interdiction or other disciplinary matters.

· Officers experiencing distress due to work, social, or domestic environment.

· Officers experiencing interpersonal problems.

What can you expect from your Peer  Counselor?

· “ Presence, tender hearted and tough minded”

·  A Listening ear

· CONFIDENTIALITY

· Openness, honesty, trust worthiness and concern.

· Efficient access to other professionals and services.

What do Peer Counselors expect of Clients?

·  A willingness to work collaboratively on personal issues and problem   solving.

· Honest and open communication.

 

Will a Peer Counselor help my family?

Your force acknowledges the importance  of the family and will seek to assist family members wherever and whenever  it is requested, required and is appropriate.

To whom do Peer Counselors refer?

Referrals may be made to:

· The chaplain

· The force medical unit

· Any other professional or centre on advice from the chaplain or medical unit

· All referrals will be made with  your full knowledge and consent and that of the chaplain and or medical unit.

How do Peer Counselors function?

· Peer counselors will be attached to a division or unit and function under the supervision of the chaplain

· Peer counselors will be available and  on request to any of their peers who need someone to talk with.

· Peer counselors will be in  constant contact with police and civilian    personnel in their Division or Unit so that the appropriate action can be taken to assist their peers in time of special need.

· Peer counselors will provide support to their Division at Critical         Incidents, vehicle accidents and other traumatic incidents.

· Peer counselor will  visit their peers and families where necessary or  requested.

· Peer counselors will be a part of the Chaplain’s team and assist with preventive holistic health activities designed to maintain the health and productivity of the force.

· Peer counselors will be trained and certified by the force’s consultant Psychiatrist and chaplain.

 

The Peer Counseling Unit

 

This service will be available in all Geographic areas of the force within the   Bahamas, and include Police Reserves and Civilian Staff.         

Counselors will be from Enlisted Officers, Reserves, and Civilians.

Counseling services will be available 24 hours per day.

Counselors can be contacted through the various Divisions and from the Force Chaplain

 

St. Michael’s Chapel

Police Headquarters

Phone:   (242) 325-1167

              (242) 302-8437

              (242) 3028459

 

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