Question 1

Who can use the USHST Peer program?

Accepted Answer

If you are a US-based helicopter pilot (and a member of the USHST)  you are welcome to use this service!

Not a USHST member? You can join here (for free).

Question 2

What can I use this service for?

Accepted Answer

Anything that might be getting you down and where you would value talking to a peer.

This may cover topics such as: your psychological wellbeing; life stressors and changes; relationship problems; fatigue; work/life balance; bereavement; sim check worries; work pressures; colleague concerns; career options; financial problems; health concerns etc.

The trained peers are there for you, your well-being as a person and as a pilot. While they cannot act on your behalf, provide expert opinion, advice or even ‘fix’ your problem, what makes them superbly qualified is that they are a pilot like you. They have all had further/advanced training in supporting fellow pilots and they in turn are supported by a team of independent psychologists from the Centre for Aviation Psychology.
 
All of the peers are willing to listen to you, understand your challenges and help you figure it out (or at least point you in the right direction).

Question 3

Who are the USHST Peers?

Accepted Answer

Our peers are experienced helicopter pilots who have specifically volunteered to become trained peers for this program. Once applying, we have carefully selected them for their suitability and experience to make excellent peers. They have participated and completed our extensive and industry leading peer training program, going on to become CAP Accredited Peers.

All our peers are then supported at all times by the CAP Mental Health Professional.

Question 4

How bad do things need to get before I can request a peer?

Accepted Answer

Like most things, it is better to deal with problems and talk to others before they start to boil over. ​Things needn’t get to a crisis point before you contact us. In fact, the sooner you do, the better we can support you. Occasionally though, life can feel especially tough and overwhelming - and as a peer support network, that is what we are here for.

Question 5

What happens when I make a peer contact request?

Accepted Answer

Once you have requested contact an available volunteer peer will send you a text message to arrange a suitable time to talk to you on the phone.
 
​​The initial conversation will be to understand how we can best help you - or which direction to point you in. You may have a specific request for guidance or information, or you may be seeking support on a particular challenge you are facing.

Either way, we are here for you.

Question 6

What if I am concerned about a colleague?

Accepted Answer

It is always better for people themselves to make contact with this service. However, sometimes they are too fearful to do so, or have lost perspective on the impact that this is having on their safety performance or those they work with. ​If you believe that their situation has an immediate safety implication, then you are obliged to act directly and contact your pilot or safety manager.

However, if you believe the impact is more ‘slow burning’, cumulative or may put a less experienced or assertive colleague in a potentially difficult position, then we suggest discussing this through with a peer.

​To be clear, this is not about 'reporting' your colleague, this is about discussing it with a trained peer and together working out what your best course of action is.
 
​If having read this you still have concerns, contact us anyway: that's what we are here for!

Question 7

Can I use this service in an Emergency?

Accepted Answer

No, we are not set up to deal with emergencies. If you think that your own (or someone else’s) safety is in immediate danger, please click here for your options.

Question 8

How do I complain about this service?

Accepted Answer

If something isn't working for you, the only way we can fix it is if you let us know. Please direct your complaint to us directly and be assured that we will deal with them in a discreet and appropriate manner. Equally, if you would rather direct it elsewhere, please send your complaint to the Head of Flight Operations or your Union rep.

Frequently Asked Questions