Our peer support service has grown substantially over the years, and we have been delighted by its increasing reach, rapid response times, and the positive outcomes achieved for the people we support.

Diana Allen, a totally independent statistician, has conducted an independent analysis of the service covering the period from 2021 to 2026. The analysis report explores how the service has developed over time and highlights the evidence behind its impact.

The analysis report shows:

• Referrals of the service have increased significantly, with 2025 being the busiest year since the service began.
• The service is delivered by a trained network of 29 volunteers from across the UK, the service provides emotional support, practical advice and reassurance to patients, carers and families.
• Volunteers bring a wide range of lived experiences, helping people at every stage of their kidney journey, from diagnosis and dialysis to transplantation and beyond.
• The service responds quickly, with a median set-up time of just one day, and that 87% of referrals resulted in positive completed support. Users consistently praised the knowledge, empathy and reassurance provided by peer supporters, with many saying the service helped reduce anxiety and increased their confidence in making treatment decisions.
• The findings reinforce the value of peer support as an important part of kidney care, helping ensure that no one has to face kidney disease alone.

Download the Analysis