Why Peer-to-Peer Models Work: Done By Us in Action

This Monday, peer mentors from ours Done By Us project came together to reflect on the first five modules of their peer mentorship training. You may have already seen some of them around , talking to residents about keeping pets safe in a heatwave at Northcott Pet Day, or sharing short films on heatwave preparedness at Waterloo Emergency Redi Day.

These activities are part of a new disaster preparedness project led by residents themselves. Done By Us invites locals to build skills, confidence and connection while supporting their communities to better manage extreme heat; one of the most immediate risks facing social housing tenants.

Dr Gary Jacobson describes why the peer-based approach works:

“Peer-based models are transforming the way communities receive and give support. By drawing on lived experience, peer models foster trust, empathy, and a genuine sense of belonging.”

For Fiorella, one of the Done By Us mentors, that sense of belonging is both instinctive and essential.

“The ability to give back to the community — we support one another. It’s part of who I am. I have a deep sense of social justice.”

Jacobson says this trust and empathy allow people to engage in ways that formal systems often can’t.

“Community members feel empowered when those who have ‘walked the path’ share knowledge and guidance. This approach breaks down barriers that traditional service models can’t always achieve, building resilience by strengthening networks of mutual support.”

Fiorella has seen that difference firsthand:

“Many people in my community are marginalised or institutionalised. I’ve noticed people aren’t kept properly informed. They’re often treated like a number. I’d like to see more dignity and respect given to people in the housing community. Through peer-to-peer support, I’ve found that people can’t always get what they need from authority figures,  but they can from one another.”

Her reflections echo the heart of Done By Us: learning and leadership are mutual. Mentors share knowledge, but they also share respect.

“I treat everyone the same — the drug-addicted, the elderly, the poor. We all deserve the same respect. I speak to everyone the same way I would speak to a lawyer or a doctor. Social justice is a human right.”

Jacobson describes Done By Us as “a shining example of lived experience in action,” adding that when residents lead, “peer support reduces isolation and boosts confidence… turning shared experience into a source of inspiration and resilience.”

That confidence is already emerging. When asked why they joined the program, participants said:

“It feels good because you’re helping your neighbours.”

“I’m gaining confidence.”

“Building skills.”

“Nice to get to know the people who live around me.”