Support Groups
STEER operates closed peer-support groups that provide:

• a confidential and safe environment for people to come together
• a group dynamic for self-help
• a listening ear
• an empathic approach
• a comfortable and friendly atmosphere

We will be initiating new groups in other locations later this year.

ADVOCACY
Our specialised mental health advocacy service is of vital importance in relation to our clients getting access to services, dealing with housing issues, social security issues and relationships with health care professionals.

Our advocacy service is highly confidential. Our aim is not to make decisions on our clients behalf, but to inform and provide clients with balanced information.

Our aim is to help clients regain their own power and speak for themselves - we only speak on their behalf if specifically requested to do so. Our advocates will support people who speak for themselves. The advocacy services works within the law and respects established codes of practice and complaints procedures.

To date, we have handled ove 100 cases and there have been an urgent demand for more.

Are You Afraid?

As part of of S.T.E.E.R.’s under-one-roof service approach, in partnership with the Northern Ireland Agoraphobia & Anxiety Society, there are fortnightly support groups for people who have experience of phobia and anxiety.

There are many degrees of

fear experienced by people, it can be simple discomfort and unease with crowds.  Other people can be so paralysed, they cannot go outside the front door on their own,  living a life of fretful seclusion.  Meeting other people who go through the same or similar experiences, can provide help and support to this isolating condition. In the support groups, anxiety management

strategies are discussed, and people receive support and encouragement for their daily achievements.

The meetings are arranged twice a month on Monday's

If you would like to find out more, please ring the Northern Ireland Agoraphobia & Anxiety Society on (028) 90 235170.

TRAINING & SUPPORT

PROGRAM

Our unique and innovative project, provides a 20-week Training and Support program for those with primary experience of mental health difficulties.  This Program has been designed by people who have primary and secondary experience of mental health difficulties.  The real experts.

The aim of this program is to assist individuals in their rehabilitation and to increase the self-confidence and self-esteem of all participants.

We aim to enhance the individuals’ educational achievements and skills base. 

We also provide each individual with the

opportunity to undertake a work placement of their choice and duration. There are 12 participants for each 20-week program of fourteen hours per week.  A range of subjects are covered, including Personal Development,Stress Management and Relaxation, Information Technology, Careers Guidance/Job Search Skills, Communication Skills, Work Placements, Interpersonal Skills, Alternative Therapies, Assertiveness Training, Art Therapy, Tai Chi and a Team Building Residential.

We have established links with the Care Department of the North West College of Further and Higher Education who will be providing many of the tutors for the Program.

The next Program in September will be certified by the Open College Network.