1:1 Peer Support

The 1:1 Peer Support Program is a telephone and internet-based program for individuals living with MS and for loved ones of people with MS. You may have a specific question, or maybe you are dealing with issues related to MS. Sometimes the best person to talk to is someone who has had similar experiences. Volunteers from across Canada are provided with training to ensure they have the skills to best support you.

Please note this program is not intended to provide or replace professional counselling services and is not a crisis program. If you need urgent help, contact 9-1-1 or go to the nearest hospital. There are also mental health resources for people of all ages available across Canada.

EXTENDED

The extended stream is for anyone looking for a listening ear from someone who understands and has lived experience with MS. Applicants are
directly matched with a trained volunteer and connect on an ongoing basis. Having someone in your corner to provide this unique support can be invaluable.

• 6 month duration
• Virtual Only (phone call, email, Skype/Facetime, etc)
• Time to be matched can take anywhere from 1 to 6 weeks depending on available volunteers.

To Apply:

• Submit an online application (if you require help with the application please contact the MS Knowledge Network and speak with an MS Navigator for assistance).
• On-boarding call with the Program Coordinator.
• The Program Coordinator will email/call you when a match is available.

Apply for Extended

ONECALL 

The OneCall stream is for individuals who have a specific question or issue related to MS. These calls with a volunteer are quick and restricted to one hour.

• 1 phone call
• Phone call format only
• A volunteer will call you within a few business days of submitting your application.

To Apply:

• Submit an online application (if you require help with the application please contact the MS Knowledge Network and speak with an MS Navigator for assistance).
• A volunteer will call* you back within a few days.
  *To protect the privacy of our volunteers, the call will come from a blocked number.

Apply for ONECALL

Be a Volunteer

If you are a person who lives with MS, or a loved one of someone who lives with MS, and are at a place in your experience where you can effectively support others, please apply to be a Peer Support Volunteer.

Please note that given potential interest and the need to ensure diversity in the volunteer pool, not all applications will result in acceptance to the program at this time.

• 1 year commitment
• Virtual Only (phone call, email, Skype/Facetime, etc)
• This process takes approximately 6 weeks

To Apply:

• Complete an online application (if you require help with the application please contact the MS Knowledge Network and speak with an MS Navigator for assistance)
• 30 minute phone interview
• Undergo a reference check (references) and criminal background check
• Once selected complete an online training.

Apply to Volunteer

If you have any questions, please contact the MS Knowledge Network at msnavigators@mscanada.ca or 1-844-859-6789

The 1:1 Peer Support Program (Extended and OneCall) provides a listening and empathetic ear from someone else affected by MS. It is not meant to replace professional counselling and volunteers do not provide medical advice.