Aims
Competences covered in this unit
Ability to maintain the core experiential, relational and nondirective role of the peer support worker while supporting people to make use of psychological approaches to support their recovery.
Ability to identify the approaches that may be helpful to a person.
Ability to explain the rationale for an approach and to answer any questions or concerns that the person has.
Ability to work with the person to monitor and review the utility of the approach being used and, if indicated, to adapt, change or stop the work.
Ability to work with the person to problem-solve any difficulties the person may experience with making use of the approach.
Ability to respond to, and discuss with the person, any feedback regarding the approach.
Ability to support people who are experiencing a mental health crisis, by:
- drawing on lived experience to inform the support being offered, and keeping in mind the person and their values
- using active listening skills to provide a sense of safety and reassurance
- working with others to find or create safe spaces for the person
- using knowledge of local resources, services and support to connect or signpost people to the appropriate service
Ability to help people who are experiencing, or have experienced a mental health crisis to carry out, develop or update crisis plans alongside the services providing care.
Underpinning understanding and knowledge for peer support workers
Communication and engagement skills
Working in partnership. Supporting people as a peer support worker
Self-care and support
Optional skills – using psychological approaches to support personal recovery