Peer support systems are increasingly being used in schools and other youth settings to tackle problems such as bullying, rejection, social exclusion, sexual identity, self-esteem and loneliness.

Peer Support in Action is a practical guide which gives adults who work with children and young people the knowledge, understanding and practical tools to provide effective and appropriate systems of peer support. Helen Cowie and Patti Wallace combine insights drawn from practice with up-to-date research findings, to give a sound basis for peer-based interventions. They encourage readers to build on the potential for offering help which many young people have and give practical guidance on how to train, guide and supervise them in supporting their peers. Peer Support in Action is for teachers, educational psychologists, social workers, education welfare officers, counselors and counseling psychologists and all professionals involved in the pastoral care and guidance of children and young people.