The Peer Support Centre (PSC) is a student-run service whose mission is to enhance the wellbeing of the student population at Queen's University by providing drop-in and appointment-based one-on-one peer support. PSC volunteers aid students with a wide range of personal, academic, social, or emotional concerns, and foster a safe space for students to talk about whatever is on their mind. In addition to our peer support services, the PSC also runs drop-in community programming and outreach campaigns throughout the year; provides on-site peer support for events and clubs through our remote boothing service; and offers trainings to students on communication, conflict resolution, and how to effectively support others.

As a PSC volunteer, you will provide welcoming, confidential, non-judgemental and empathetic peer support to students through active listening, resource referral, information guidance, and practical assistance. In doing so, you will cultivate a friendly and respectful atmosphere for all, and support students' wellbeing and safety while they work with you. The PSC is operated by the Alma Mater Society and is supported by Queen's University's Student Wellness Services.

Time Commitment, Eligibility and Remuneration

• Part-time, 8-month volunteer term from September - April 30
• Volunteers will be required to attend mandatory in-person volunteer training taking place on August 29-30, 2025, from 9 AM - 5 PM on both days. Though we will have online training options available, volunteers should make every effort to be available in-person in Kingston for these dates.
• All AMS volunteers must be enrolled in at least 18.00 credit units (60 of a full course load as determined by one’s program) both at the time that they apply and for the duration of their term, and must have paid the full slate of AMS mandatory fees including the AMS Membership Fee.

Responsibilities

• Attend all training sessions to become familiar with the PSC and demonstrate an awareness of the knowledge and skills needed to provide effective peer support
• Provide empathetic, confidential, non-judgemental one-on-one peer support to peers in-person and virtually
• Adhere to all expectations regarding confidentiality, mandated reporting of incidents, check-ins, and follow-ups, to ensure the safety of peers while they are in your care
• Document peer support sessions in debriefs and communicate concerns with supervisors and managers-on-duty
• Maintain a calm demeanor during periods of high volume or unusual events
• Be productive, timely, efficient, and attentive in arriving to shifts and completing assigned tasks
• Participate in PSC marketing and outreach initiatives as needed
• Respect and adhere to all procedures as outlined in the service Discipline Policy and follow all AMS policy as outlined in the Volunteer Policy and Procedures Manual

Useful Contacts

• Peer Support Centre Head Manager at peersupport@ams.queensu.ca
• PSC Marketing Assistant Manager at psc.marketing@ams.queensu.ca
• PSC Outreach Assistant Manager at psc.outreach@ams.queensu.ca