Perceived social support from peers and friends sits at the nexus between individual adaptation and social context. As a mechanism of resilience promotion, peer support (PS) is often crucial to supporting individuals to navigate various forms of community-level risks to health and wellbeing. Evidence suggests that perceived social support is not an equitably accessible resource, with marginalised groups likely to experience social exclusion and loneliness.

This chapter explores implications for resilience promotion of both PS and social support from friends (SSF). I discuss challenges for accessing perceived support from friends and non-expert peers when community-level risks reflexively shape peer groups. I examine how formal PS provision may address inequalities in accessing SSF, while highlighting the ways in which friendship support is, quite possibly, irreplaceable. Research is reviewed focusing on two groups that have been marginalised in different ways: LGBTQIA+ persons and people experiencing substance use disorders or substance misuse. Conceptual and practical distinctions between formal and informal support provision are discussed. Opportunities for supportive interactions are identified, such as safe community spaces, informal mentorship and creative groups, and implications for practice are discussed. Emphasising the dynamic natures of resilience and relationship, a conceptual distinction is drawn between ‘being-with’ and ‘push-pull’ processes of support. I suggest that a unique blend of these within peer relationships is part of what lends SSF and PS their meaning for resilience promotion in marginalised groups. Specific recommendations for fostering PS initiatives and friendship support in communities are discussed.