At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals on their recovery journey using your lived experience of the Criminal Justice System.
- Company: Join the award-winning Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, dedicated to community health.
- Benefits: Ongoing training, career development, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Flexible commuting across the Guildford area is essential.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by helping others regain control of their lives.
- Qualifications: Lived experience of the Criminal Justice System; peer support experience is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Peer Support Worker: MHTR
The closing date is 29 October 2025
A rare opportunity for a motivated individual who has lived experience of the Criminal Justice System or custody in prison. Do you want to become involved in working with psychologists and other practitioners, to support the recovery journey of people who struggle with their mental health?
Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (MPFT) is seeking to recruit people with lived experiences to join our Primary Care Mental Health Treatment Requirements teams in Surrey, Buckinghamshire and Hampshire. This application is for Guildford area. The post would be ideal for someone who wishes to use their own experiences of prison and/or the Criminal Justice Service to help others who are accessing support for the Primary Care Mental Health Treatment Requirement.
Experience of peer support work is desirable, but not required. The role depends more upon your ability to use your personal experience to support others and your aspiration to do so whilst being part of a NHS team that is supportive, approachable and dedicated to the role. Training will be provided. The ability to commute independently across the Guilford area is essential.
The foundation of peer support is based on the recognition that there is no better person to support the path towards recovery than someone who has walked the same path as that individual. We actively seek peers who have lived experience of both the CJS and a health and social care need, e.g. mental health, substance misuse, etc.
Main Duties
The Peer Support Worker will provide formalised peer support and practical assistance to service users in order for them to engage with appropriate services, develop an identity outside of the criminal justice system, and regain control over their lives and their own unique recovery process. The Peer Support Worker will come alongside a service user and assist them when aspiring and considering the initial steps on their recovery journey.
About us
Come and work with us at our award‑winning NHS Trust, leading the way for trying new and better ways of working to help improve life for our local communities. We have around 9,000 staff who provide physical and mental healthcare, support for people with learning disabilities, and adult social care across Staffordshire, Stoke‑on‑Trent, Shropshire, and Telford & Wrekin. We also run regional and national services, including help for new parents (perinatal care), eating disorders, forensic services, sexual health, and support for people in prison with mental health, drug, or alcohol problems. We offer great career development for both clinical and non‑clinical roles, with ongoing training and support to help you learn and grow. We are \'United in our Uniqueness\' and committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels welcome and can be themselves, no matter their background or identity.
Job Responsibilities
- To establish a supportive and respectful relationship with service users
- To help individuals identify strengths, interests, and their own achievable and meaningful recovery goals
- To support the implementation of groups and networks that enable participation in activities
- To actively engage with colleagues and other professionals so the needs of the client group are met
Person Specification
Experience
- Lived experience of the Criminal Justice System
- Willingness to use own experiences to support others
- Experience of supporting people in the community
Other
- Able to fulfil the requirement to commute across the whole of the West Mercia Area
- Personal values
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Employer name
Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
Peer Support Worker : MHTR in Guildford employer: Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment where your lived experiences can make a real difference in the lives of others. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we offer comprehensive training and development opportunities, ensuring that you can thrive both personally and professionally while contributing to meaningful mental health support in the Guildford area. Join our award-winning team and be part of a culture that values uniqueness and collaboration, making a positive impact on the community.
Contact Details:
Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Peer Support Worker : MHTR in Guildford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the field, attend local events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to peer support work. Think about how your lived experiences can be a strength and how they can help others on their recovery journey.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! When you get the chance to speak with potential employers, let them know why you want to work in this role and how your experiences align with their mission. Authenticity goes a long way!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Peer Support Worker : MHTR in Guildford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Authentic:When writing your application, let your true self shine through. Share your lived experiences honestly, as this is what makes you unique and valuable for the role. We want to see how your journey can inspire and support others.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experiences align with the job description. Focus on the skills and insights you've gained from your time in the Criminal Justice System and how they can help others on their recovery journey.
Show Your Passion:Express your enthusiasm for the role and the impact you hope to make. We’re looking for individuals who are genuinely motivated to support others, so don’t hold back on sharing why this opportunity excites you!
Apply Through Our Website:To ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get you one step closer to joining our amazing team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
✨Know Your Story
Make sure you can articulate your lived experience clearly and confidently. Think about how your journey through the Criminal Justice System has shaped your understanding of mental health and recovery. This personal narrative is your unique selling point, so practice sharing it in a way that highlights your strengths and aspirations.
✨Research the Role
Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of a Peer Support Worker and the values of the Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust. Understanding their approach to mental health care will help you align your answers with their mission during the interview. It shows you're genuinely interested and committed to the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations with service users. Think about examples from your own experience where you've supported others or faced challenges. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.
✨Show Enthusiasm for Teamwork
This role involves working closely with psychologists and other practitioners, so express your eagerness to collaborate. Share examples of how you've worked in teams before, even if it's outside a professional setting. Highlight your ability to engage with colleagues and contribute positively to a supportive environment.
