In Peer Support it’s important to have clear guidelines and rules to ensure that everyone involved feels comfortable and safe. One essential rule that makes this possible is called ‘informed consent’. Moreover, it is part of our ethical obligation.
In other words, informed consent in peer Support is a must.
In this article, we will take a look at exactly what it means, how to do it, and why it’s so crucial.
What is informed consent?
When we talk about informed consent, we meant that before beginning any peer support activities, the person seeking support needs to have all the necessary information.
This way, they can understand exactly what they are getting themselves into and make informed choices about their care.
As peer support workers, we need to explain what it is we actually do.
This includes what will happen during the sessions, our qualifications any potential risks or benefits, and confidentiality, as well as any limitations.
By giving informed consent, the person seeking support has control over their choices and knows what to expect.
Informed consent is also a way of showing respect for the persons autonomy and their right to make decisions about their own wellbeing. An added benefit, it helps build trust and a good working relationship between the peer specialist and the individual seeking support.
Why Is Informed Consent So Important?
While informed consent is part of the ethical obligations in our peer support role, it is more than just a rule. It comes with significant benefits that makes the support we provide more effective overall.
Establishing Trust and Rapport
Typically informed consent isn’t really used to build rapport. However, being that we are peer support workers and the informed consent process includes discussing our qualifications, this is a chance to communicate a little bit of our background.
While it’s not a time to tell your story, you can mention that you have lived experience with mental health or substance abuse challenges. This allows individuals to feel more confident in sharing their thoughts, concerns, and personal experiences.
By openly discussing the different aspects of peer support, we demonstrate transparency and honesty. Which in turn, creates a safe space where the individuals we work with can feel comfortable opening up and working toward their recovery goals.
“Your transparency will lead to other people’s transformation.”
Respecting Self-Determination and Personal Choices
Self-determination and personal choice are fundamental aspects of peer support. Informed consent honors these principles by ensuring that people have the freedom to make their own decisions.
In other words, the have the right to accept or decline the offered support and to participate in a way that aligns with their personal values and preferences. Which coincidentally is also part of our values as peer support specialists.
Applying informed consent in peer support allows the individual to have a say in their own care. It acknowledges that they are the experts when it comes to their experiences and their history. Respecting their knowledge of self encourages active participation in the recovery process.
Promoting Transparency and Clear Boundaries
Informed consent promotes transparency in the peer support relationship. More simply put, it sets clear expectations and boundaries between the peer specialist and the person seeking support.
Through open and clear communication, the person seeking support knows what they can expect from the peer specialist and what is expected of them in return.
By going over confidentiality, the limitations of peer support, and any potential conflicts of interest, informed consent ensures there are no surprises or hidden agendas.
At the same time, it sets up a collaborative and accountable relationship that will create the space for recovery.
Many of these guidelines are covered in depth in The Complete Guide To Peer Support Core Competencies.
At the end of day, informed consent is there to make sure the individual knows exactly what is going on. And yes, we are aware that we have been beating this idea like a dead horse but that is because it is important.
More than just being part of our ethical obligations, informed consent shows respect for the individuals we work with.
We believe that peer support has the potential to be a refreshing break from the typical healthcare experience. Peer support brings empathy and understanding into the process on a whole new level.
Elements of informed Consent
Informed consent consists of several important parts. These elements break things down in a way people can understand, so they can be part of the decision-making process. Lets take a look at each one in detail.
Disclosure of Information
The first element of informed consent is the disclosure of relevant information. We have touched on this throughout the article.
In a nutshell, this includes explaining our role as peer support workers, the limitations of peer support, and any risks or challenges that might come up.
Additionally, disclosure should cover things such as confidentiality, boundaries of the relationship, and how information may be shared with other professionals involved in the person’s care.
If you are reporting any information to a probation officer or any other agency, this should also be included.
Comprehension
Comprehension refers to the person’s ability to understand the information provided. Its important that peer support workers gauge the person’s understanding and address any questions or concerns they may have.
Similarly, try to use clear and easily understandable language, avoid complex terms they may not recognize.
Side Note
If you are wondering how to do this, we have found the easiest way is just simply to ask. Given the opportunity, most people will speak up if they are unclear about something.
On the other hand, when we don’t ask questions, people may not feel comfortable saying anything.
It is good practice to always ask questions. Sometimes we get so comfortable with certain information that to us it seems like common sense. However, that is not always the case. Encouraging participation and asking the person questions can help ensure comprehension.
Moreover, it allows for clarification and reinforces the person’s understanding of what they are consenting to.
Voluntariness
Voluntariness emphasizes that any participation in peer support is entirely up to the individual and that they are not forced.
The person seeking the support should feel free to accept or decline the support offered, without any pressure or negative consequences.
“It is by choice and not by chances that we change our circumstances"
It should be made clear to the individual that consent can be withdrawn at any time. Alternative options can be explored if the person wants to make changes to their care. Providing these options, we create an environment of respect and autonomy for the individual.
When Someone is Court Ordered
This can get tricky when working with individuals who are court ordered to some kind of treatment.
The difference in this case is that we as peer support workers are not imposing our will. While there may be negative consequences for failing to participate, the person seeking support is still free to make that choice.
Sometimes those conversations can be difficult and hard to navigate.
Remember, we are there to offer support, if someone does not want to accept that support that is their choice. No matter how badly we want to help someone, if they do not want help, there is nothing we can do.
It doesn’t make it any easier but that is the reality of the situation.
Decision-Making Capacity
The final element of informed consent is assessing decision-making capacity. In other words, are they able to make informed decisions in their current state.
This includes the person’s ability to understand the information, evaluate risks and benefits, and make choices based on their own values and preferences.
Most likely, you will run into a situation where this is a concern. It may be because of emotional distress, mental abilities, or, intoxication.
In these events, consider reaching out to supervisors or other professionals who can help assess and support the individual.
Remember, the goal is to make sure the person’s decisions are respected while also providing assistance if needed.
Things to Consider Regarding Informed Consent
Most of the time, informed consent is a simple process and you won’t run in to any problems. However, there are a few things worth considering. Let’s take a look.
Power Dynamics
Sometimes, certain power dynamics can exist within the peer support relationship, particularly when there are differences in knowledge, experience, or perceived authority. Making note of these dynamics and being proactive can eliminate confusion.
In some cases, the individuals we work with may see us authority figures and be less likely to speak up should they have concerns about their care.
As peer support workers, we should always strive to be seen as equals.
This helps create a space where those seeking support feel comfortable expressing preferences and concerns with out fear or judgment.
Challenging and highlighting abusive power dynamics in our culture is my goal; replicating them is not.
Consent in Informal Peer Support
Informal peer support, such as in online communities or informal settings, such as a local group, can be a tricky situation. Still, we should always try to provide clear information, encourage voluntary participation, and respect the choices of the person seeking support.
While obtaining written consent may not always be possible, verbally establishing informed consent and following its principles is important.
This includes being mindful of the boundaries and limitations of role in informal settings, and clarifying the scope of support we provide.
Confidentiality and Information Sharing
While we have already touched on this subject, confidentiality and information sharing is usually the one that causes the most confusion. Not to mention, it also comes with the biggest consequences.
Always be clear with individuals about the limits of confidentiality and legal obligations that might require sharing information. It is essential that the person seeking support understand and agree to these limitations before engaging in the peer support process.
If there information is going to be shared with supervisors, counselors, probation officers, etc., the individual should be made aware of that.
Best Practices for Informed Consent in Peer Support
Informed consent in peer support is a fairly simple process if you are following best practices. These practices ensure clarity, transparency, and ethical engagement in the peer support relationship.
Obtaining Consent: Initial and Ongoing
Obtaining informed consent should be an ongoing process throughout the peer support journey.
Initially, we should provide an in depth explanation of our role, boundaries, and the person’s rights and responsibilities.
Throughout the relationship, peer support workers should regularly check in with the person seeking support. Mainly, this is to make sure they are still comfortable with the process and willing to continue.
The ongoing consent process allows for open communication about the persons needs and preferences as they continue in their recovery.
Documenting Consent
In some cases, you may be required to document that you have obtained informed consent. This is done in order to maintain clarity and accountability on our part.
Documentation should include key elements discussed, such as the information disclosed, checks for comprehension and voluntariness, and any specific agreements or conditions.
This documentation serves as a reference point and can be revisited if any questions or concerns come up in the future.
Addressing Consent Withdrawal
Individuals have the right to withdraw their consent to services at any time. As peer support workers, respecting that right is non-negotiable.
We should always communicate this fact and make sure they understand there will not be any consequences for doing so. In this event, we can support their decision and discuss alternative options and resources should they want them.
In peer support, we respect and support the choices of others, even if we do not understand them
Cultural sensitivity and Inclusivity
The informed consent process should always be tailored to the specific cultural and individual needs of the person. Consider cultural, linguistic, and accessibility factors when explaining and obtaining consent.
This includes using appropriate language, providing translators or interpreters when necessary, and being aware of cultural nuances.
Culturally sensitive and inclusive practices demonstrate respect for diversity. and help ensure the person seeking support fully comprehends the information and feels comfortable participating in the peer support process.
Reviewing and Updating Consent Procedures
It is also good practice to stay informed about any legal or ethical changes that affect the informed consent process. These might be within the agency you work with or on a national level.
Since peer support is still evolving, staying up to date with any changes to the standards of informed consent will make sure you are working within your ethical boundaries.
Informed Consent In Peer Support: Final Thoughts
For the most part, informed consent is a pretty straightforward process. That being said, it should be handled in a thoughtful and inclusive way. In doing so, we provide individuals with a refreshing break from the typical healthcare experience.
Ultimately, it’s about more than just upholding our legal and ethical obligations. It’s about trust, communication, and transparency.
We hope you found this article helpful and if you did, leave us a comment! We love to hear from other peer support workers and what they are doing in their roles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is informed consent in the context of peer support?
Informed consent in peer support refers to the process where individuals receiving peer support services are provided with clear and comprehensive information about the nature of the support, its benefits, risks, and any alternatives available. It ensures that individuals can make an autonomous and educated decision about participating in peer support
Why is informed consent important in peer support relationships?
Informed consent is crucial in peer support relationships to uphold the principles of autonomy, respect, and ethics. It ensures that individuals receiving support have the right to make decisions about their participation and that their choices are respected. It also helps establish trust between peers and maintains ethical boundaries.
What should be included in the informed consent process for peer support?
The informed consent process for peer support should include a clear explanation of the purpose and goals of the support, the roles and responsibilities of both peers, confidentiality agreements, the potential benefits and risks, the right to withdraw consent at any time, and how personal information will be handled and protected.
Are there any legal or ethical guidelines governing informed consent in peer support?
While there may not be specific laws governing informed consent in peer support, it is generally guided by ethical principles, including those set forth by peer support organizations and mental health associations. These guidelines emphasize transparency, respect for autonomy, and the importance of protecting individuals’ rights and privacy.
This post first appeared on The Ultimate Resource For Peer Support, please read the originial post: here
