At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals in mental health crises with empathy and structured well-being plans.
- Company: Join a leading mental health charity dedicated to equality and support.
- Benefits: Generous leave, training opportunities, and regular supervision.
- Other info: Flexible hours with opportunities for additional shifts and career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in mental health support and a commitment to personal development.
Salary: £16,435.90 per annum (FTE £26,227.50)
Hours: Part Time - 23.5 hours per week
Contract: Permanent
Location: Methold House (the Guildcare building), North Street, Worthing
Holiday Entitlement: 25 days per year rising to 27 days after 2 years pro-rata
West Sussex Mind Values: Excellence, Equitable, Open, Together, Curious, Unstoppable
National Mind Excellence Awards 2025: Winner for Equality & Diversity; Highly Commended for Effective Services
Overview: We have a new vacancy to join our dedicated team who provide a safe and supportive service for people who are struggling to cope when other mental health services are not available. The service is open 5pm-10.30pm on weekdays and 3pm–10.30pm at weekends. The service is open 7 days a week and colleagues are expected to be flexible regarding their availability to help ensure that the service is staffed effectively. The anticipated shifts for this current vacancy are Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays; this may be subject to change to fit with other colleagues' working patterns. We also meet for team meetings on Monday afternoon. From time-to-time, there may be the opportunity to work additional hours to cover holiday and sickness.
Our work: The successful candidate will work with a small team of Mental Health and Peer Support Workers, alongside an NHS Mental Health Practitioner, to offer support to people who may be experiencing or approaching a mental health crisis. This includes offering a listening ear along with structured support to develop a well-being plan and signposting advice.
You will be: A team player who’s committed to our values and your personal development, with proven experience of working with individuals from wide ranging diverse backgrounds. At Staying Well, our Peer Support Workers use their own lived experience of having mental health problems and using mental health services to support service users in their recovery journey. Along with listening support and empathy, the successful candidate will offer in-the-moment interventions which enable individuals to manage their emotional distress.
Join us and in return we will offer regular supervision, training, progression opportunities, employee assistance and a generous leave allowance.
How to apply: Please find an application form, guidance notes, job description and briefing notes for further details on our 'work for us' page on our website.
Closing date: 12.00pm on Friday 3rd July 2026
Interview date: Friday 17th July 2026
Please email completed applications to our People Team (details on our website). Please note we are unable to provide sponsorship for this post, you must therefore be able to demonstrate your eligibility to work in the UK. This post is subject to an Enhanced DBS check. We reserve the right to close this vacancy at any time once we receive sufficient applications and encourage all interested applicants to apply at their earliest convenience to avoid disappointment. No agencies or CVs.
West Sussex Mind is committed to equality of opportunity for all staff, and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.
Peer Support Worker - Crisis Cafe in Worthing employer: West Sussex Mind
West Sussex Mind is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and development of its staff, offering a supportive work culture where values such as excellence, equity, and collaboration thrive. Located in Worthing, our Peer Support Workers benefit from flexible working hours, generous leave entitlements, and opportunities for professional growth through regular supervision and training. Join us in making a meaningful impact in the lives of those experiencing mental health challenges while being part of a dedicated team committed to inclusivity and support.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Peer Support Worker - Crisis Cafe in Worthing
✨Get Involved in Community Events
Dive headfirst into community events and social work fairs in your area. These are great opportunities to connect with potential employers like West Sussex Mind, grab some insider info, and showcase your passion for social work. Plus, meeting people face-to-face can really make you stand out!
✨Join Social Work Networks
Tap into social work networks and online communities, like local charities and organisations. Engaging in discussions or volunteering can help you build a strong reputation and could lead to part-time roles just like the one at West Sussex Mind. The connections you make could be the key to landing your next opportunity!
✨Make Your Passion Shine
When approaching part-time roles, be sure to highlight your passion for social issues in conversations and informal chats. Bring your experiences to life through storytelling – this can resonate well with organisations looking for someone who genuinely cares about making a difference!
✨Keep an Eye on Local Job Boards
Part-time roles in social work might not always be advertised in the usual places. Keep checking local job boards or community centres for openings, and don't hesitate to apply directly through West Sussex Mind's website – we love seeing proactive candidates who take the initiative!
We think you need these skills to ace Peer Support Worker - Crisis Cafe in Worthing
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let your passion for social work shine through. Talk about why you're drawn to this field and how you've been involved in community service or support roles. We want to see your commitment and the heart you bring to the table!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to spotlight any hands-on experience you have! Whether it's internships, volunteering, or relevant coursework, detail how your past experiences relate to the role at West Sussex Mind. We love seeing candidates who have practical skills and a real understanding of social issues.
Certificates and Training Matter:If you've got any relevant certifications or training specific to social work (like safeguarding training or counselling qualifications), don’t forget to include these in your CV! These details can set you apart and show us you’re serious about your professional development.
Be Flexible with Your Availability:Since this is a part-time role, explain your availability clearly in your application. Let us know when you can start and how many hours you’re looking to work. Being upfront about your schedule will help us see how you fit into the team at West Sussex Mind.
How to prepare for a job interview at West Sussex Mind
✨Show Your Passion for Helping Others
In social work, it's all about your commitment to making a difference. Be ready to share specific experiences that highlight your passion for helping others, whether that's through volunteering, placements, or personal stories. We want to see that genuine drive during your chat with West Sussex Mind.
✨Know Your Social Work Theories
You might be quizzed on social work theories or models that inform your practice, like the person-in-environment approach. Brush up on these concepts and be prepared to discuss how you'd apply them in a practical setting. This could be a game changer in your interview for a Peer Support Worker - Crisis Cafe at West Sussex Mind.
✨Flexibility and Availability are Key
As you're going for a part-time role, highlight your flexibility and how it would fit with the organisation's needs. Have examples ready that demonstrate your availability for various shifts or urgent situations—that's just gold for a social work role.
✨Prepare for a Situation-Based Discussion
Expect scenario-based questions where you'll need to demonstrate how you'd handle specific situations with clients or stakeholders. Think of a couple of real-life scenarios you've encountered and articulate your thought process. This will show West Sussex Mind that you're ready to hit the ground running in the Peer Support Worker - Crisis Cafe role.
