Ara is proud to announce the launch of its Peer Academy in Bristol — a dedicated training and development programme designed to support people in recovery to become Peer Mentors, while strengthening support for individuals overcoming homelessness & substance use challenges residing in Ara housing.

Drawing on the principle that lived experience has unique power to inspire hope and better lives, the Peer Academy creates a structured pathway for people in recovery to support others, gain accredited training, and build skills for future employment.

“Our Peer Academy recognises that lived experience is a powerful professional asset — one that transforms services, builds connection, and creates real opportunities for people rebuilding their lives.”
— Ara Peer Coordinator

Why the Peer Academy?

Every recovery journey is personal — but no one should have to face it alone.

For many individuals affected by substance use and homelessness, meaningful connection and peer support are key drivers of sustained recovery. Research and lived experience consistently show that people supported by peers feel:

✅ More understood
✅ More confident and hopeful
✅ Less isolated
✅ Better able to stay engaged in recovery services

Ara’s Peer Academy has been created to:

• Provide safe, high-quality, trauma-informed peer support
• Equip peer mentors with professional-standard training
• Offer genuine pathways into employment, education and accredited learning
• Build a stronger, more connected recovery community

The Vision

To build a long-term, sustainable network of trained peer mentors who will:

• Strengthen recovery support within Ara and across Bristol
• Reduce stigma and isolation
• Support people to build confidence, skills and independence
• Develop future recovery workers, volunteers, and community leaders

“I’m extremely proud that we’ve been able to launch the Ara peer academy and give people with lived experience high quality training and a social purpose.  As well as the benefits for them and their future careers, Ara clients will be able to tap into strong recovery support and perspective from people who have been in the same place as them and found a way through.”
— Senior Leadership, Ara

What the Peer Academy Offers

For Peer Mentors

• 5-week structured core training
• Optional accredited qualifications & employment pathways
• Supervision, reflection, and wellbeing support
• Hands-on mentoring experience
• CV-building, coaching, and future-work support
• Community, connection, and personal growth

For Service Users

• Compassionate support from peer mentors
• 1-to-1 and group mentoring
• Practical guidance on life skills and accessing services
• Emotional support and role-modelling
• Increased community connection and hope

Ara’s peer academy has been kindly funded by The Nisbett Trust and St Michael’s Foundation.

Registered Charity no: 1002224