Peer education is the term used for the sharing of information among members of the same specific community. Factors such as who you are trying to reach and the overall aim of the project, determine where the peer education takes place. The success of peer education lies in the credibility of the person delivering the information. People tend to value and trust the information they receive off their friends or peers. This peer credibility can influence a change in the behaviour of a group.

MDECC uses peer education because:

• It is more cost effective than other methods
• Peers are a credible source if information
• It is empowering for those involved
• It utilises an already established means of sharing information and advice
• People identify more with their peers rather than a professional
• Peer educators act as good role models
• Education presented by peers may be more acceptable when other education is not
• It can be used to educate hard to reach populations
• Peers can reinforce learning through ongoing contact

Check out The Do-it-yourself guide to peer education with young people

Check out The Do-it-yourself guide to peer education with parents