Carers Peer Support Worker Parklands Hospital

A peer role on Elmwood Ward, a specialist dementia ward at Parklands Hospital, supporting the families and carers of people receiving inpatient mental health care. The post holder offers one-to-one support, runs carer groups, helps draw up carers' communication plans and connects carers with services and community resources. It is designed for people who have cared for a friend or family member through mental distress, and an NVQ Level 2 or equivalent experience is accepted.

• Provide one-to-one support to families and carers, drawing on own lived experience
• Build trusting relationships with carers
• Facilitate carer groups
• Help carers access information, services and community resources
• Develop Carer's Communication Plans with carers, patients and the multidisciplinary team
• Promote communication and ensure carers feel heard, valued and involved in care
• Advocate for carers and promote the Triangle of Care
• Strengthen links with local statutory, voluntary and community organisations
• Help improve the support available to carers
• Contribute to service improvement and evaluation
• Share experience to inspire hope that recovery is possible
• Empower carers to recognise their strengths, build resilience and access support

• NVQ Level 2 or equivalent, or equivalent experience

• Lived experience of caring for a friend or family member experiencing mental distress

• Excellent communication skills
• Empathy and a passion for supporting others through shared experience
• Ability to build rapport and maintain professional boundaries
• Ability to work collaboratively

• Flexible working requests can be discussed as part of the interview process