Carers Senior Peer Support Worker

About Richmond Borough Mind and the Service:

Richmond Borough Mind (RB Mind) is a mental health charity dedicated to supporting the wellbeing of the local community. Our Peer Support Service in partnership with the NHS South West London and St George’s Trust provides emotional support, guidance, and community connections for unpaid carers supporting loved ones with mental health challenges.

This role is part of the Community Mental Health Transformation Programme (CMHTP), an initiative designed to improve support for those with severe and enduring mental health conditions by integrating care across the NHS, community services, and the voluntary sector.

Role Purpose:

The Carers Senior Peer Support Worker will coordinate and deliver peer support services for unpaid carers across Richmond. This includes leading a small team, providing direct support, facilitating peer groups, and collaborating with local partners to ensure carers receive holistic, high-quality support.

Drawing on their own lived experience as a carer or supporting mental health recovery, the post-holder will offer guidance, share best practices, and ensure carers feel empowered and supported in their wellbeing journey.

Key Responsibilities:

Service Leadership and Coordination:

    •    Lead the Carers Peer Support Service, ensuring effective day-to-day operations.

    •    Manage and supervise Peer Support Workers, providing regular guidance and reflective practice.

    •    Oversee referrals, allocating cases appropriately and taking on complex cases where extended support is required.

    •    Ensure the service meets key performance indicators and reporting requirements.

    •    Develop creative, evidence-based approaches to supporting carers and improving wellbeing.

Carer Support and Delivery:

    •    Provide direct one-to-one and group support for unpaid carers.

    •    Deliver emotional support, information, and guidance, encouraging carer wellbeing and self-advocacy.

    •    Promote access to carer assessments and opportunities for breaks from caring.

    •    Facilitate peer support groups and training sessions co-produced with carers.

    •    Identify risks, safeguarding concerns, and manage them effectively in line with policy.

Collaboration and Partnership Working:

    •    Build partnerships with local NHS, community, and voluntary organisations.

    •    Work closely with South West London & St George’s NHS Trust (SWLSTG) to improve carer inclusion in service delivery.

    •    Support the implementation of the Triangle of Care approach to strengthen collaboration between carers, professionals, and service users.

    •    Represent the service in multi-agency meetings, ensuring appropriate referrals and advocacy for carers’ needs.

Person Specification:

Essential:

    •    Lived experience as an unpaid carer or experience supporting individuals with mental health challenges.

    •    Experience providing direct emotional support and facilitating groups for vulnerable adults.

    •    Supervisory or team leadership experience.

    •    Knowledge of mental health issues, carer rights, and safeguarding practices.

    •    Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to engage with diverse communities.

    •    Ability to work independently, manage a caseload, and meet service delivery targets.

    •    Proficiency in IT systems, including email, Microsoft Office, and case management databases.

Desirable:

    •    Experience working with families or carers in complex situations.

    •    Familiarity with the Triangle of Care framework.

    •    Knowledge of public and voluntary sector services in Richmond.

Benefits of Working with RB Mind:

    •    Annual Leave: 25 days plus bank holidays (pro rata), increasing with service

    •    Pension: Contributory pension scheme

    •    Wellbeing Support: Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) including free counselling sessions

    •    Professional Development: Training and career growth opportunities

    •    Additional: Supportive team culture, optional paid on-call shifts, staff away days, and socials

How to Apply:

If you’re passionate about supporting carers and making a difference in your community, we’d love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and a cover letter explaining how your skills and experience align with the role.