Ontario Self-Help Network - OSHNET
archived project
OSHNET was established in 1992 to support the development of new and existing self-help/mutual aid initiatives across Ontario.
What Does OSHNET Offer?
Referrals
Networking
Training
Consultation
Information Resources
For more information email the OSHNET coordinator.
How Do We Do This?
Learn more about our resources for basic self-help info: starting a group, the role of the professional, finding the right group, confidentiality, and more.
Interactive workshops help participants learn new skills for developing new initiatives and facilitating groups.
Easy-to-use workbooks help groups address essential topics (e.g. shared leadership, confidentiality).
Our 200 page Resource Kit provides an indexed compilation of resources from across North America.
Email, telephone or face-to-face consultations help volunteers and professionals address specific challenges.
A toll-free referral line helps callers find (or start) local self-help groups in any region of Ontario.
Networking meetings and conferences allow people to connect and share with others using self-help strategies.
A print twice-year newsletter, click here for back issues.
For quick access, check out our online resources.
Topics OSHNET Can Help With:
Understanding Self-Help/Mutual Aid
Starting a Group
Keeping Your Group on Track
The Role of the Professional
Integrating Self-Help Strategies in Your Health Promotion Work
Transitioning from Professional to Member Leadership
Communication, Facilitation & Conflict Resolution Skills
Evaluation & Strategic Planning for Self-Help Initiatives
Empowerment Approaches to Health Promotion
Peer Approaches and Informal Volunteering
Diversity and Accessibility
...and more!
Our Networks
OSHNET Affiliate Self-Help Centres - For a list of OSHNET's current affiliates, click here.
Maternal/Infant/Family Health Promotion Programs Using Self-Help/Peer Support - In collaboration with the Best Start Resource Centre, OSHNET recently conducted a needs assessment and began developing resources and services targeted specifically for professionals using self-help/peer support strategies in areas related to maternal, infant and family health. Many of these initiatives are connected with local public health units and community health centres (which OSHNET has a special mandate to serve). To support networking among various programs, we have developed a contact list of initiatives and groups across the province.
Funded by the Ministry of Health Promotion as part of the Ontario Health Promotion Resource System.
Regional Conferences
If interested in cohosting a Regional Conference on self-help, mutual aid and peer support, please contact the Coordinator at outreach@selfhelp.on.ca or phone toll free 1-888-283-8806 for details. Three Regional Conferences are funded yearly by the Ministry of Health Promotion across the Province of Ontario and since we are always planning ahead, give us a call to see about bringing this resource to your community
Photos from our November 2008 community event
Photos from our New Language Resource Launch Event