Peer Support Worker Jobs is for someone to help adults (18 and older) in the London areas of Brent, Harrow, and Hillingdon who are figuring out if they have autism.
The person in this role will provide support before and after the autism diagnosis as part of a healthcare team. This means helping people understand what autism is, what to expect during testing, and how to find resources and support groups if they are diagnosed.
The NHS (National Health Service) strongly encourages vaccination to protect everyone, and this is something they feel is very important for all employees.
Peer Support Worker Jobs in UK Details
| Posting date | 05 October 2024 |
|---|---|
| Salary | £28,166.00 to £28,166.00 per year |
| Additional salary information | £28166.00 a year |
| Hours | Full time |
| Closing date | 20 October 2024 |
Eligibility Criteria for Peer Support Worker Jobs in UK
- Personal experience with autism: You need to have autism yourself and be willing to share your experiences with others in a positive way.
- Good communication and people skills: You need to be a good listener, build relationships with people, and explain things clearly.
- Understanding of autism: You need to know about autism and the challenges that autistic people face.
- Commitment to learning: You’ll need to complete some training to learn more about peer support and how to help others.
It would also be great if you had:
- Formal training: A qualification in peer support work would be helpful.
- Experience: Experience helping people in a healthcare setting would be a plus.
- Knowledge of local resources: Knowing about autism support services in the area would be useful.
Basically, they’re looking for someone who is organized, compassionate, and committed to helping autistic adults. You’ll be working with people from diverse backgrounds, so it’s important to be respectful and understanding of everyone’s experiences.
Duties of Peer Support Worker Jobs in UK
- Directly supporting people
You’ll work with individuals and groups, sharing your experiences and helping them navigate life with autism. This might involve things like running support groups, teaching coping strategies, or just being someone who understands what they’re going through.
- Helping staff understand autism
You’ll also be teaching the staff at the NHS about autism. This will help them provide better care to autistic people. You might do this by giving presentations, sharing your story, or helping them understand things from an autistic perspective.
- Looking at the bigger picture
This job recognizes that it’s not just about autism itself, but also about all the things in life that can affect someone’s health. This includes things like where they live, their financial situation, and their social connections. You’ll be thinking about these things and how they impact the people you support.
- Working directly with people
You’ll spend time with autistic adults one-on-one, offering support and guidance.
- Running groups
There might also be chances to work with people in groups, which could be a great way to build community and share experiences.
- Teaming up with colleagues
You’ll also work closely with other people on the autism team, sharing ideas and supporting each other.
Peer Support Worker Jobs Benefits
You’ve been there: Because you have autism yourself, you’ll get what other autistic adults are going through. This allows you to build strong relationships based on trust and understanding.
Breaking down barriers: By being open about your own experiences, you can help reduce the stigma around autism. This can encourage others to seek help and talk openly about their challenges.
Opportunities to learn and grow: You’ll have access to training and development programs to build your skills in areas like supporting people through tough times and learning helpful counseling techniques. This can help you be even better at your job and open up new career possibilities.
A supportive team: You’ll be working with people who understand the importance of mental health and wellbeing. They’ll be there to support you and create a positive work environment.
Creating connections: You’ll play a big role in creating a sense of community, both within your team and in the wider community. This means helping people connect with each other and build support networks.
Lots of job options: Peer support workers are needed in many different places, like hospitals, schools, and community centers. This gives you lots of choices and the chance to work in different environments.
Stronger communication skills: You’ll learn to be a better communicator, which is a valuable skill in all parts of life. This includes things like really listening to people and understanding their feelings.
How to apply Peer Support Worker Jobs in UK 2024?
Look for vacancies online:
- NHS Jobs: Go to NHS jobs site https://www.jobs.nhs.uk/, including peer support worker roles (www.jobs.nhs.uk).
- CharityJob: This website lists jobs with charities and non-profit organisations, many of which employ peer support workers (www.charityjob.co.uk).
- Indeed: This general job site also has listings for peer support worker positions (uk.indeed.com).
- Mental health trusts: Check the websites of local mental health trusts in your area, as they often advertise peer support worker vacancies directly.
2. Check local services and organizations:
- Mind: This mental health charity often has peer support worker roles available (www.mind.org.uk).
- Rethink Mental Illness: Another mental health charity that employs peer support workers (www.rethink.org).
- Local community mental health teams: Contact your local community mental health team to inquire about any peer support worker opportunities.
3. Consider your skills and experience:
- Lived experience: Most peer support worker roles require personal experience of mental health challenges or other relevant issues.
- Training: Some roles may require specific training or qualifications, but many emphasize lived experience and willingness to learn.
- Transferable skills: Highlight any relevant skills you have, such as communication, empathy, and active listening.
4. Prepare your application:
- Tailor your CV and cover letter: Emphasize your lived experience and how it relates to the role, as well as any relevant skills and experience.
- Be honest and open: Share your experiences in a positive and empowering way, demonstrating your recovery journey and willingness to help others.
- Highlight your passion: Show your enthusiasm for supporting others and making a difference in their lives.
5. Prepare for the interview:
- Reflect on your experiences: Think about how your experiences have shaped you and how you can use them to support others.
- Practice your answers: Prepare for common interview questions, such as “Why do you want to be a peer support worker?” and “Tell me about a time you helped someone.”
FAQs
Where can I find peer support worker jobs?
Check online job boards like Indeed, NHS Jobs, and CharityJob.
You can also contact local mental health trusts, charities, and community organizations directly.
Is there training available for peer support workers?
Yes, many organizations offer training programs for peer support workers. These programs can help you develop essential skills and knowledge.
Do peer support workers get paid?
Yes, most peer support worker positions are paid roles. However, there may also be volunteer opportunities available.
