At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals with mental health challenges and help create a welcoming community.
- Company: Join Rethink Mental Illness, a leading charity dedicated to mental health support.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, receive training, and make a real difference in people's lives.
- Other info: Flexible commitment of at least 3 hours per week; full training provided.
- Why this job: Use your lived experience to empower others and foster connections.
- Qualifications: Lived experience of mental health and good communication skills.
At Rethink Mental Illness, we believe everyone deserves understanding, connection, and the chance to live a fulfilling life. Our volunteers play a vital role in supporting people affected by mental illness and helping create communities where no one feels alone.
As a Peer Support Volunteer you will have lived experience of mental health and support service users on a wide range of non-complex issues that can be easily and quickly resolved. You will provide additional support at our Peer Support group sessions. This could be, for example, by empathising with potential clients about the difficulties that having a mental health problem can create, helping to set up the room, explaining the services that are on offer and how these can be accessed, putting people who are anxious at ease by welcoming them. Peer volunteers can also co-facilitate groups based on personal skills and experience. Ideally, you will be able to commit a minimum of 3 hours per week.
Full training and regular supervision will be provided, so you’ll feel confident and supported in your role. This role requires an Enhanced DBS check, which will be arranged and paid for by Rethink Mental Illness.
As a Peer Support Volunteer you will:
- Support the Peer Support Workers to run the group sessions e.g. by helping to set up the room and by welcoming people
- Help to create a safe space where people can share as much or as little as they wish to about their experiences
- Foster the principles of co-production
- Signpost people to services in the local area that meets their needs
- Describe and explain services that are on offer from Rethink Mental Illness and other local community assets that can provide help and advice relevant to people's needs
- Support the development of drop-in sessions at various locations across the locality
The Empowering Minds Gloucestershire Service currently run group sessions for service users across Gloucestershire. Our team is dedicated to delivering a high-quality service that focuses on supporting individuals to achieve their recovery goals. The aim is to improve the lives and support independence for those living with a mental illness.
What will make you a great fit for this role?
- Lived experience of mental health
- Ability to support service users on a wide range of non-complex issues that can be easily and quickly resolved
- Ability to empathise with others
- Good communication skills
- Reliable and punctual
It's not essential, but you may also bring:
- Knowledge of the local area
- Knowledge of services that can be accessed
To apply, please click the “apply now” button and complete a short interest form. You will have the opportunity to upload a CV and/or cover letter however, this is not mandatory. A member of the team will review your application and be in touch to update you on the next steps. If your application is successful, you will be invited to take part in an informal volunteer discussion.
If you have any questions about the role or would like to find out more before applying, please contact the volunteer manager: Beth Morris – beth.morris@rethink.org
We’re Rethink Mental Illness, a leading charity provider of mental health services in England. We support thousands of people through our groups, services, policy, campaigns and advice and information. Our work supports us in delivering on our mission: “A better life for everyone severely affected by mental illness.”
Diversity is important to us and we appreciate difference through difference, inclusiveness and belonging. It gives us a deeper understanding of the world, our society and the diverse communities we’re working with. By including everyone, we are able to draw on the unique experiences and expertise of our people to help shape and enrich our workplace and improve our services.
We have an ambition of become a truly anti-racist employer, campaigning organisation and service provider - and in our efforts to influence policy and wider societal factors impacting on mental health set out in our anti-racist statement.
Peer Support Volunteer in Gloucester employer: Rethink Mental Illness
At Rethink Mental Illness, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values the contributions of our volunteers in creating supportive communities for those affected by mental illness. Our inclusive work culture fosters personal growth through comprehensive training and supervision, ensuring you feel confident in your role while making a meaningful impact. Located in Gloucestershire, we offer unique opportunities to engage with diverse local services, enhancing your experience and connection within the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Peer Support Volunteer in Gloucester
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Rethink Mental Illness and their values. This will help you connect with them during your discussions and show that you're genuinely interested in their mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! As a Peer Support Volunteer, you'll need to empathise and engage with others. Try role-playing scenarios with friends or family to build your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to share your lived experience! Your personal journey is valuable, so think about how it can inspire and support others. This authenticity can really resonate with the team and those you’ll be helping.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s super easy and ensures your application gets to the right people. Plus, if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to Beth Morris for more info!
We think you need these skills to ace Peer Support Volunteer in Gloucester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you and how your lived experience can contribute to our mission. Don’t be afraid to share your story and what motivates you to volunteer.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to highlight your relevant skills and experiences that align with the role of a Peer Support Volunteer. Think about how your background can help create a safe space for others and support their journeys.
Keep It Clear and Concise:While we love a good story, keep your application straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon. This helps us understand your points quickly and makes it easier for us to see how you fit into our team.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to hit that 'apply now' button on our website! It’s the easiest way to get your application in front of us. Plus, if you have any questions, you can reach out to Beth Morris directly for more info before applying.
How to prepare for a job interview at Rethink Mental Illness
✨Show Your Lived Experience
Make sure to share your personal journey with mental health during the interview. This role is all about empathy and understanding, so highlighting how your experiences have shaped your perspective will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Know the Services
Familiarise yourself with Rethink Mental Illness and the services they offer. Being able to discuss specific programmes or support options will show that you’re genuinely interested and prepared to help others navigate their mental health challenges.
✨Practice Active Listening
During the interview, demonstrate your active listening skills. Respond thoughtfully to questions and engage with the interviewer’s points. This will showcase your ability to connect with others, which is crucial for a Peer Support Volunteer.
✨Prepare Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the training process or how the team fosters a supportive environment. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and your commitment to being part of the community.
