At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals struggling with addiction by providing guidance and connecting them to resources.
- Company: Rehabit, a compassionate organisation dedicated to helping those in need.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, receive training, and make a real difference in your community.
- Other info: Flexible volunteering opportunities with potential for community outreach.
- Why this job: Use your lived experience to empower others on their recovery journey.
- Qualifications: Personal experience with addiction and peer support skills are essential.
Rehabit is looking for volunteers with personal lived experience of addiction or substance abuse to join our team and help those struggling with drugs and alcohol.
What difference will you make?
Your role will help people struggling with drugs and alcohol who are stuck in the mental health system or falling through the cracks to receive much‑needed support, guidance and counselling.
What are we looking for?
Qualifications and Experience
- Lived experience of addiction and experience offering peer support or working with addicts/substance abusers.
- At least three years of experience advising, mentoring, or advocating on behalf of such clients.
- A good working knowledge of the social care sector.
Key Skills
- Advice‑giving and guidance skills
- Confidence having conversations with people they don’t know
- Coaching or mentoring
- Listening and reflecting
- Empathy
- Open about own recovery story
- Good interpersonal and communication skills
- Flexible
- Ability to work unsupervised
- Confidence working with people from diverse backgrounds
What will you be doing?
Peer supporters will connect with clients ready for recovery, acting as the first point of contact and helping to channel them into our in‑house counselling services or 12‑step fellowships. They may also join community drop‑in sessions at partner locations such as community centres, food banks, residential centres, and hostels. Initially these sessions will be based mainly in Islington.
Peers can focus on one of the two role types or a combination of both. The main goals are to identify and support clients, not to build long‑term relationships. Workloads may vary with low client volume and fluctuations over time.
All volunteers will need a DBS check (or an existing DBS on the Update Service) and will receive mandatory training plus in‑house coaching and charity orientation sessions.
Our primary service areas are Islington, with additional outreach in Haringey, Camden, Barnet, and Enfield.
Peer support volunteer - Volunteer in London employer: Rehabit UK
Rehabit is an exceptional employer for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals struggling with addiction. Our supportive work culture fosters personal growth and development, offering comprehensive training and coaching to equip volunteers with the skills needed to provide effective peer support. Located in Islington, we provide unique opportunities to engage with diverse communities, ensuring that every volunteer's contribution is valued and impactful.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Peer support volunteer - Volunteer in London
✨Tip Number 1
Get your story ready! Your lived experience is your superpower. Be prepared to share your journey and how it shapes your approach to helping others. Authenticity goes a long way in connecting with those you’ll support.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice active listening. When you’re chatting with potential clients, focus on what they’re saying without jumping in with solutions right away. This builds trust and shows you genuinely care about their struggles.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with other volunteers and professionals in the field. Attend community events or training sessions to meet people who can help you grow and learn more about the support landscape.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to get your foot in the door. Plus, we love seeing applications that come directly from our platform, so make sure you take that step!
We think you need these skills to ace Peer support volunteer - Volunteer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Authentic:When you're writing your application, let your true self shine through. Share your lived experience of addiction openly and honestly, as this is what makes you unique and relatable to those you’ll be helping.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to emphasise any previous experience you have in peer support or working with individuals facing addiction. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your skills!
Show Your Empathy:In your application, demonstrate your ability to connect with others. Use examples that highlight your listening skills and empathy, as these are crucial for supporting clients on their recovery journey.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Rehabit UK
✨Share Your Story
Be open about your own recovery journey. This role is all about lived experience, so sharing your personal story can help establish trust and connection with the interviewers. It shows that you understand the challenges faced by clients.
✨Demonstrate Empathy
Prepare to discuss how you’ve used empathy in past experiences. Think of specific examples where you’ve supported someone through a tough time. This will highlight your ability to connect with clients and provide the guidance they need.
✨Know the Social Care Sector
Brush up on your knowledge of the social care sector, especially regarding addiction support services. Being able to discuss relevant resources or approaches during the interview will show that you’re proactive and well-informed.
✨Practice Active Listening
During the interview, practice active listening. Show that you can reflect on what’s being said and respond thoughtfully. This skill is crucial for the role, as it demonstrates your ability to engage with clients effectively.
