Aims
Competences covered in this unit:
Ability to draw on knowledge that the demographic groups included in discussion of ‘different’ beliefs, practices or lifestyles are usually those that are potentially subject to disadvantage and/or discrimination.
Ability to draw on knowledge that because people will often be a member of, or identify with, more than one ‘group’, the implications of different combinations of identity and lifestyle factors need to be held in mind.
Ability to maintain an awareness of the potential significance for practice of social and cultural variation across a range of domains.
Ability to draw on knowledge of social and cultural issues that commonly restrict or reduce access to support.
Ability to draw on knowledge of the potential impact of social inequalities and exclusion on the development of mental health difficulties, and on access to, and experience of, mental health services, resources, support and opportunities.
Ability to draw on knowledge of the impact of factors such as socioeconomic disadvantage or disability on practical arrangements that influence attendance and engagement.
Where people from a specific sociodemographic group are regularly seen within a service, an ability to draw on knowledge of relevant beliefs, practices and lifestyles.
Ability to identify protective factors that are provided through membership of a specific sociodemographic group.
Ability to work collaboratively with people to develop an understanding of their culture and world view, and the implications of any culturally specific customs or expectations for the ways in which problems are described and presented.
Ability to take an active interest in a person’s social and cultural background, and to demonstrate a willingness to learn about their sociocultural perspectives and world view (for the purpose of engaging with them).
Ability for peer support workers of all backgrounds to draw on an awareness of their own group membership and values and how these may influence their perceptions of the person being supported.
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