# Peer supervisor Peer supervision is one of the ways Equal Care Co-op builds a culture of care, connection and accountability. Every person contributing to the co-op’s work - whether a Member or not - is linked with a **Peer Supervisor**. A Peer Supervisor is a bit of a mentor, a bit of a coach, and often a cheerleader too. They’re someone to check in with, reflect alongside, and problem-solve with. They also help the co-op spot when someone needs extra support, and make sure no one is working in isolation. *** ## What does a Peer Supervisor do? * **Welcomes and orients**\ Helps new joiners feel part of the co-op and understand how things work * **Checks in regularly** * At least every three months for independent workers * Every couple of months (or more often) for employed workers * Frequency is agreed together based on what works for both people * **Supports reflection and problem-solving**\ Encourages open conversation, shares responsibility for issues, and draws on wider support if needed, with the help of a resource list and information checklist * **Keeps in touch**\ Shares important news or updates from across the co-op, as appropriate * **Remembers the human**\ Celebrates birthdays, marks milestones, and helps coordinate small kindnesses that build connection * **Advocates quietly**\ Reminds others of their supervisee’s access or health needs and helps make sure meetings, venues, or events are inclusive and accessible *** ## What makes a good Peer Supervisor? Someone who... * ...sees the value and potential in the person they’re supporting * ...is approachable and kind, but also willing to ask thoughtful questions * ...respects boundaries and avoids taking on a formal “manager” role * ...isn’t too close to the person they are peer supervising: ideally not someone a person already has a strong personal friendship with that could blur roles *** ## Choosing each other Peer Supervisors and Supervisees choose each other based on compatibility — what kind of support style works best, shared experiences, or personal preference. Each Peer Supervisor creates a short **profile** to help others understand their approach and what they can offer. *** ## One size doesn’t fit all Being a Peer Supervisor might involve more or less time and energy depending on: * How many people you're supporting * Their experience level and support needs * Your own style and availability What matters most is **consistency, kindness, and mutual respect**. --- # Agent Instructions: Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter: ``` GET https://play.equal.care/equal-cares-model/hats/circle-hats-operational/peer-supervisor.md?ask= ``` The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.