A day in the life of a Peer Support Worker: training day. Issue 3 (5th August 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Watson, Emma
• Is Part Of: Mental health and social inclusion. Volume 18:Issue 3(2014)
• Page Start: 116
• Page End: 119
• Publication Date: 2014-08-05
• Subjects: Training -- Co-production -- Peer Support Work; Mentally ill -- Services for -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; Mental health services -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; Day care centers for people with mental disabilities -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; 362.20425094105
• DOI: 10.1108/MHSI-06-2014-0018
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2042-8308

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: – The purpose of this paper is to describe the experience of being a peer support worker: a day providing training for new peer support workers. Design/methodology/approach: – A reflective personal account of a day in the authors work sent as a trainer on a peer support worker training course. Findings: – The critical value of co-production. Training is not about an "expert" imparting their wisdom – the answers are in the room. To provide training is to continue to learn. Research limitations/implications: – One person's account of their experience of providing peer support worker training. Practical implications: – Modelling that which is valued rather than simply telling people. A recovery focus must extend to colleagues as well as the people we serve. Originality/value: – While there is a great deal written about the theory of peer support work, little is published about peer support workers experience. This paper provides important insights into the nature of peer support work.