Wellbeing Peer Support
Thursday, 06 June 2019
The University is introducing a new staff network called Wellbeing Peer Support. Wellbeing Peer Support will consist of staff volunteers who will provide confidential support and information to colleagues who are experiencing a mental health issue or emotional distress and need the support of someone to talk to but are unable to approach a colleague or line manager.
Anyone interested in becoming a Wellbeing Peer Support volunteer and wishing to find out more about this staff network is invited to come along to one of two 45 minute sessions to be held on:
- Tuesday 11 June at 12.00 pm in Room G05, Miller Building
- Wednesday 19 June at 12.00 pm in Room 1U02, Agriculture Building
The Wellbeing Peer Support role profile provides more information on what the role comprises. The role will be suitable for anyone with an interest in mental health and wellbeing, and a desire to support others.
If you want to become a Wellbeing Peer Support volunteer you will be asked to complete a brief expression of interest form and may be invited to attend an informal interview.
Anyone wishing to become a Wellbeing Peer Support volunteer will be required to undertake a comprehensive two day Mental Health awareness and skills course that will provide delegates with a deeper understanding of the issues that impact on and relate to people’s mental health. You will also need to have the time to fulfil the role once trained.
It is anticipated that we will be in a position to launch the Wellbeing Peer Support staff network in the Autumn Term once the Wellbeing Peer Support volunteers have attended the two day course.
Anyone subsequently appointed as a Wellbeing Peer Support volunteer will receive ongoing support and development, including a regular termly meeting to ensure consistency of approach, to share ideas and experiences, and to monitor how the network is being used. In addition, Wellbeing Peer Support volunteers will be required to undertake refresher skills training in order to maintain their skills.