There's nothing new about peer support, which is at the root of welfare provision. Our community has been looking out for each other forever, nowhere more proactively and poignantly than in the spaces we inhabit after dark.
Welfare builds on that natural
instinct that is part of our queer makeup to care for each
other, and recognizes that that care extends beyond things
going 'wrong' (whatever that means). Welfare workers share
the space with the party, a presence to lightly hold space
for the decisions we all make, whatever their outcome; we are
proactively looking to support and believe you when you need
that energy and input.
We are intuitively skilled and highly trained in conflict
resolution, de-escalation, drug awareness/response. We centre
harm reduction in everything we do.
A welfare presence in your space sends a powerful message to
the community you're inviting in that all of their being is
welcome and cared for - introverted, messy, hedonistic,
exuberant, and yes, sometimes in need of recentring, calling
in, or reflective guidance.
The welfare team is all yours! Think
of us as a gift from the party organizers to you, there to
share in any moment you offer us, whether you’re thriving and
riding high, or find yourself somewhere unexpected, and
you’re not sure where things are taking you. We’re not
security. Our priority is your wellness – we want to keep you
at the party for as long as that serves you! So please bring
us your whole selves, with no fear or shame around anything
that’s coming with you. We welcome all of your being 😊 The
welfare workers are highly trained, with incredibly managed
expectations about what makes a party a party, from personal
and professional experience.
We look forward to celebrating with you!