Page 30 - Buffalo Grove

BUFFALO GROVE POLICE DEPARTMENT
PEER SUPPORT PROGRAM
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One effective strategy for stimulating a culture
of psychological wellness within an agency is the development and maintenance of a peer support program. The Peer Support Program is designed to provide emotional support during and after times of personal or professional crisis. The Peer Support Program strives to support sworn employees, their family members, civilian employees, and retirees who may express a need for assistance. It is de- signed to promote trust and reserve confidentiality, within program guidelines, to anyone who seeks assistance from a Peer Support member.
The BGPD Peer Support Program is composed of a group of 11 peer volunteers that are available to any member of the department. This provides an
avenue for members to talk out personal and/or professional problems confidentially with someone who understands and cares. Peer Support Members undergo 40 hours of intense peer support training on topics such as effective listening, emotional dis- tress, suicide awareness, relationships, addictions, and communication skills.
The BGPD peer support program has been in
place since 2016 and has offered assistance along with mentoring and resources to employees whose personal or professional problems negatively affect their well-being, work performance, or their family life. The Buffalo Grove Police Department recog- nizes the value of a peer-based program to assist with personal and/or professional problems.