Partners come together for peer support session

Last week, we welcomed a wonderful group of partners for one of our in-person peer support sessions — and it was everything these gatherings are meant to be.

Our peer support sessions were established in direct response to feedback from our partners, who told us they valued more opportunities to collaborate, come together, and bounce ideas off one another. Sessions alternate between online and in-person, giving partners the flexibility to join in whichever way works best for them.

The morning began with a check-in with Maria and Nicole from Wellbody Wellmind Wellbeing — a chance to hear about what they've been working on and explore how we might support their next steps. From there, we gathered around the table in our garden cabin with Kayla from Andy's Angels, Lindsay from Community Supporters, and Sarah from Creative Beatz Jam for a peer support session over lunch.

The conversation covered a lot of meaningful ground: who each person is and what they're most proud of; what feels hard right now and the challenges they share in common; where outside support or input would be valuable; and how the group can show up for one another going forward.

It was a moment to pause, step back from the day-to-day, and connect with people who truly understand the experience of doing this kind of work.

Andy's Angels reflected on the day afterwards: "Thank you to The Pearce Foundation for a lovely afternoon sharing and supporting each other."

Caz O'Kane, one of our Skill Sharers, captured it well when she commented: "Brilliant to create this space — when life leading a small organisation can be all go go go, it's even more vital. And getting together with others in the same boat is priceless (and the venue is gorgeous!)"

Creating space like this really matters — space to reflect, to listen, and to feel understood by those who are walking a similar path. We're grateful to every partner who came along and gave their time and openness so generously.