02 March 2026

The Northern Pain Rehabilitation Service is supporting patients to manage chronic pain though a range of group programs, strengthened by volunteers with lived experience.

These volunteers play an important role across programs such as the Nature and Nurture recreation group, Reducing Opioid Reliance group, introductory workshops and Practical Pain Recovery group.
By sharing their experiences, they help to create a supportive environment where patients feel understood and less alone.

“Often people with chronic pain report feeling judged, stigmatised, misunderstood and not believed by people within the community,” says Clinical Nurse Elisha.

“We have found involving our lived experience volunteers who have all attended the Chronic Pain Service, benefits our patients by increasing feelings of support, understanding and encouragement.”

“Our volunteers sharing their experiences provide patients with hope that their own pain management can be improved with non-medication approaches,” she said.

Our Volunteers encourage patients to explore strategies from gentle movement and creative activities to mindfulness in the sensory garden.

The Northern Pain Rehabilitation Service is currently looking to co-design a volunteer peer led group. This group will be offered to patients who have attended their first introductory session and are waiting for their first individual appointment.

Two male volunteers sitting outside
Image: Volunteers Peter and Darren form part of the fantastic group of volunteers within our Northern Pain Rehabilitation Service.