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- Tasks: Support individuals with mental health challenges in community settings and promote recovery.
- Company: Join West London NHS Trust, a leading diverse healthcare provider in the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy a collaborative work environment and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while working in an innovative team.
- Qualifications: Must have completed accredited peer support training and possess relevant experience.
- Other info: This role is ideal for those passionate about mental health and community support.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Do you want to be part of a team improving the way adult mental health care is provided in the community? Hounslow West Mental Health Integrated Network Team (MINT) is a community-based service supporting people’s mental and physical health as well as social care needs. We work closely with local GP practices, primary care networks, social services, voluntary sector and other organisations to provide interventions in a more collaborative way which are simpler and support joined-up, personalised treatment and care.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a senior peer support worker with a keen interest in providing outstanding support within mental health community settings. The Community Mental Health Framework represents a new approach to providing community-based integrated support, care and treatment for adults with mental health problems whatever their level of need. Please note that visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
Main duties of the job
The role of senior peer support worker (SPSW) has been developed specifically for experienced peer support workers who have completed their accredited peer support worker training and meet the criteria in the competency framework for peer support workers as defined by ImROC. The SPSW will provide formalised peer support and practical assistance to help people to engage with their local communities and benefit from all the supports available locally. The post holder will be part of a multi-disciplinary team which will cover a Primary Care Network or locality and will work across networks to form a truly innovative and ground-breaking support structure.
Working for our organisation
West London NHS Trust is one of the most diverse healthcare providers in the UK, delivering a range of mental health and physical healthcare and community services. The Trust runs Broadmoor Hospital, one of three high secure hospitals in the country, with an international reputation. Our high secure services care for patients from South of England and we provide low and medium secure services across eight London boroughs. The Trust also provides mental and physical healthcare in three London boroughs (Ealing, Hounslow and Hammersmith & Fulham). We employ 4,500 staff, of whom 56% are BME. Our turnover for 2023-24 is £426m. The Trust is rated as ‘Good’ overall by the Care Quality Commission. Forensic services are rated as ‘Outstanding’. The Trust is an established partner and contributor in the development of the evolving North West London Integrated Care System and the Integrated Care Board. The Trust leads the NW London Children and Adolescent Mental Health provider collaborative.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
The Candidate Pack provides an overview of the key tasks and responsibilities of the role, and the person specification outlines the qualifications, skills, experience and knowledge required. Please view as attached. The person specification below is not the full person specification, but outlines the criteria against which your application form will be assessed.
Person specification
- Qualifications
- Completion of peer support work competencies as defined by ImROC
- Evidence of further related training
- Experience
- Personal lived experience of mental health distress
- Personal experience of accessing primary or secondary mental health service
- Experience of working as a peer support worker
- Experience of working with peers and/or clinicians using a co-production methodology within a work setting
- Experience of contributing to a research project or audit
- Experience of collaborative working alongside professionals in either a statutory or non-statutory mental health service
- Experience of group work interventions
- Experience of working as a peer trainer
- Knowledge
- Understanding of how lived experience of mental health problems can be used to support others
- Good understanding of recovery focused principles and how they can influence support for service users
- Understanding of the issues and concerns that service users may have in relation to their care
- Ability to support others in a recovery orientated way
- Able to maintain the profile of the peer support service within a multidisciplinary/multi-agency setting
- Ability to receive highly complex and sensitive information and maintain confidentiality
- Computer Literacy
- Knowledge of mental health policies and legislation that may contribute to support for service users
- Understanding the impact of stigma and discrimination on service users
- Good organisational skills and time management
- Other Requirements
- Positive and approachable manner
- Enthusiasm and passion for working within mental health services
Senior Peer Support Worker employer: West London NHS Trust
Contact Detail:
West London NHS Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Peer Support Worker
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the mental health field, especially those who work within community settings. Attend local mental health events or workshops to meet potential colleagues and learn more about the role of a Senior Peer Support Worker.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the Community Mental Health Framework and its principles. Understanding how this framework operates will help you articulate your knowledge during interviews and demonstrate your commitment to integrated support.
✨Tip Number 3
Engage with peer support communities online or in-person. Sharing experiences and learning from others in similar roles can provide valuable insights and prepare you for the collaborative nature of the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Research West London NHS Trust and its initiatives. Being well-informed about the organisation's values, services, and recent developments will show your genuine interest and help you align your answers with their mission during the interview.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Peer Support Worker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Senior Peer Support Worker position. Familiarise yourself with the Community Mental Health Framework and how it impacts the role.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight your relevant experience, particularly any work as a peer support worker or in mental health settings. Emphasise your personal lived experience and how it informs your approach to supporting others.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to express your passion for mental health services and your understanding of recovery-focused principles. Share specific examples of how you've supported others in similar roles or settings.
Showcase Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly demonstrate your knowledge of mental health policies, your ability to maintain confidentiality, and your organisational skills. Mention any training or competencies you've completed that align with the job requirements.
How to prepare for a job interview at West London NHS Trust
✨Showcase Your Lived Experience
As a Senior Peer Support Worker, your personal lived experience of mental health distress is invaluable. Be prepared to share your journey and how it has shaped your understanding of the challenges faced by service users.
✨Demonstrate Collaborative Skills
Highlight your experience working alongside professionals in both statutory and non-statutory settings. Discuss specific examples where you contributed to a multi-disciplinary team and how you facilitated co-production methodologies.
✨Understand Recovery Principles
Familiarise yourself with recovery-focused principles and be ready to discuss how these can influence support for service users. Show that you can maintain a recovery-oriented approach in your interactions.
✨Prepare for Sensitive Discussions
Given the nature of the role, you may encounter complex and sensitive information. Be prepared to discuss how you would handle such situations while maintaining confidentiality and supporting service users effectively.
