The value of peer support groups following disaster: From Aberfan to Manchester

Abstract

This article reviews the nature of post-disaster peer support groups and highlights their role in addressing collective grief and trauma following mass fatality incidents. With reference to best practice guidelines for responding to collective trauma events the article highlights the functions of peer support in promoting social support, connectedness and self/community efficacy. Different types of UK-based peer support group are described – from independent user-based action groups to facilitated talking groups as part of wider community support networks. The establishment and delivery of the Manchester Attack Support Group Programme (following the 2017 Manchester Arena terror attack) is discussed as a contemporary example of a network of facilitated talking groups. It complements the participation of bereaved people and survivors in other independent and self-determined peer-based activities such as the Manchester Survivors Choir and terrorism-related campaigns.