Peer Support Guidelines
Head and Neck Cancer Support Network Trust
Peer support is at the heart of the Head and Neck Cancer Support Network Trust. When people affected by head and neck cancer connect with others who understand the experience, it can reduce isolation, build confidence, and help people navigate life during and after treatment.
Our peer support takes place both online and in person, where people can share experiences, learn from one another, and find encouragement.
These guidelines help ensure our peer support spaces remain safe, respectful, and inclusive for everyone.
What Good Peer Support Looks Like
Peer supporters help create a safe and welcoming environment by:
Listening first
Give people space to share their experiences without interruption or judgment.
Sharing your experience — not giving instructions
You may share what helped you, but recognise that everyone’s cancer journey is different.
Encouraging people to seek professional advice
Being kind and respectful
Everyone’s story deserves respect, even if their experiences or views differ from your own.
Maintaining confidentiality
What is shared in support groups should stay within the group.
Supporting People Online
Online communities can provide support for people who cannot attend meetings or who feel more comfortable connecting digitally.
When supporting others online:
• Be welcoming and encouraging
• Avoid arguments or criticism
• Be mindful that written words can be misunderstood
• Do not share personal health information about others
• Encourage respectful conversation
Remember that many members may be reading quietly before they feel ready to participate.
Supporting People in Group Meetings
In-person and virtual meetings provide opportunities for deeper connection.
Peer supporters can help by:
• Welcoming new members
• Encouraging everyone to have a chance to speak
• Respecting that some people may prefer to listen rather than talk
• Being mindful of time so multiple voices can be heard
• Supporting a calm and respectful environment
Recognising Limits
Peer supporters are not expected to solve problems or carry the emotional weight of others.
If someone needs more specialised support, it is appropriate to suggest:
• Speaking with their healthcare team
• Counselling or psychological services
• Cancer support organisations
Knowing when to encourage professional help is an important part of responsible peer support.
Looking After Yourself
Providing support to others can be rewarding, but it is also important to care for your own well-being.
Peer supporters should:
• Take breaks when needed
• Step back if conversations become overwhelming
• Reach out to group facilitators if they need support
Healthy peer support communities look after both the person receiving support and the person offering it.
Walking Together
The Head and Neck Cancer Support Network Trust believes that no one should face head and neck cancer alone.
Through whakatairanga, hono, and tautoko, we create spaces where people can share their stories, support one another, and find hope in community.
Together, we walk this journey.
You can download and print our one page of guidelines by clicking the button below.
Our Values
Our peer support is guided by three core values:
Whakatairanga — Uplifting one another
We aim to lift people up through encouragement, empathy, and hope. Living with head and neck cancer can be challenging, but together we can help each other find strength and resilience.
Hono — Creating meaningful connections
We bring people together so they can connect with others who understand their experiences. Connection helps reduce loneliness and reminds people they are not walking this path alone.
Tautoko — Offering practical and emotional support
We support one another by listening, sharing experiences, and helping people find useful information and resources.
Principles of Peer Support
Peer support in our network is not professional counselling or medical advice. Instead, it is about:
• Sharing lived experience
• Listening with empathy
• Encouraging others
• Helping people feel less alone
The most powerful thing a peer supporter can offer is understanding and compassion.
Respecting Diversity and Culture
Our community includes people from many backgrounds, cultures, and life experiences across Aotearoa New Zealand.
We recognise and respect:
• Māori as tangata whenua
• The importance of whānau in cancer journeys
• Cultural values, beliefs, and practices
• Different ways people communicate and seek support
We encourage peer supporters to approach every interaction with humility, openness, and respect.
Simple practices that support inclusion include:
• Using people’s preferred names and pronouns
• Respecting tikanga and cultural practices
• Allowing space for whānau involvement
• Being mindful that people may express emotions differently