Ground Rules for SNAP Peer Support Meetings -- 2022 Update
These ground rules have been established to ensure our meetings are as supportive and healing as possible for the survivors who attend them. If you believe someone is violating these rules or purposefully acting in bad faith, please contact the Support Group Leader and the SNAP National Staff.
The Support Group Meeting is divided into two parts. During the first part, everyone is invited to share their experiences and feelings. No one should speak more than once during this time. The second part consists of open reflection where all are invited to talk about what they learned from the previous sharing. Rather than debate what someone said in the first half, we encourage folks to reflect on what others have said and how that makes them think and feel.
1. Everything said in the group is confidential.
2. Please do not share with anyone the names or stories you learn in the group.
3. We share feelings and experiences just as they are. There are no right or wrong statements.
4. Each person knows what is best for themselves, and therefore carries the primary responsibility for their well-being during the meeting. If at any time persons need to leave or take a break, for any reason, they are free to do so.
5. Everyone’s presence is appreciated and can be a source of healing for others. No one is required to speak during the meeting. Listening is a gift, too.
6. When speaking, use “I” statements, rather than “we,” “you,” or “they.” Please focus on your feelings, not opinions, and keep any discussions of religion or politics focused on the subject of survivorship.
7. Avoid individual problem solving. Individuals can learn from one another's experiences to solve their own problems.
8. When a person speaks, the others should listen actively, with the goal of relating the speaker’s experiences to their own. Only one person should be speaking at any given time with no interruptions from others.
9. Giving or asking for advice is not allowed. It is empowering and healing for us to gather ideas that can benefit us. No one of us is an expert and no one knows what is best for another.
10. The sharing that takes place is a gift to everyone in the room. Please don’t ask questions seeking more information. What each person chooses to share is appreciated and sufficient.
11. At times there may be silence during the meeting. This provides a moment to reflect on what has been shared. No one needs to feel anxious or responsible to break the silence.
