Health Pasifika Peer Support Worker

Noa'ia, Tālofa lava, Mauri, Kia orāna, Mālō e lelei, Talofa, Ni sa bula vinaka, Fakaalofa lahi atu, Mālo ni, Halo olgeta, Halo Oloketa, Tēnā koutou katoa and warm Pacific greetings to you all!

"E LE ITULOLO FUA LA'AU OLE VAO UA FALALA ONA OLE MATAGI"
"When the trees in the forest bend, they bend because of the wind"

This Samoan proverb reflects how external forces shape and influence us, just as a tree bends to the wind. In our work, we recognise the powerful influences that shape lives, and together, we support each other to stand strong.

Ko wai mātou | About Us
Mind and Body is part of the Emerge Aotearoa Trust Group, a national organisation committed to mental health, addiction, disability, offender rehabilitation, well-being, and housing services. Our values are grounded in Māori principles of Whakawhanaunga, Manaakitanga, Ako, and Whakamana.

Guided by these values, we use our personal lived experiences of mental distress and recovery to inspire, nurture hope, and empower those we support. We work to help Pacific communities embrace their well-being, supported by the strength of cultural values and identity.

Te tūranga | The Role

As a Peer Support Worker, you'll support Pacific adults navigating mental health challenges in the Wellington-Kapiti region, working with the Health Pasifika team in Porirua. You'll provide one-on-one peer support, drawing on your own journey with mental distress to build connections, nurture hope, and inspire well-being. This role combines cultural understanding with clinical care to ensure Pacific peoples' voices are central in mental health services.

We have two full-time, fixed-term positions available until 27 June 2025, Monday to Friday within Te Whatu Ora's working hours.

Mōu ake | About You
We are seeking people with a passion for supporting Pacific communities and improving the well-being of Pasifika peoples. If you can bring the following, we'd love to hear from you:

- Personal experience with mental distress, demonstrating strong leadership and insight in your own well-being journey.
- Experience working in the mental health and/or addictions sector.
- A Level 4 Certificate in Health & Wellbeing (Peer Support) is desirable.
- A strong ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds, particularly Māori and Pasifika communities and their whānau/aiga (essential).
- Fluency in a Pacific language (desirable).
- Strong cultural competency, with the ability to provide culturally-grounded support.
- A full NZ Driver's License and legal rights to work in Aotearoa.

Mō mātou mahi | What We Offer
- Group supervision and co-reflection
- Access to well-being subsidies and additional support services, such as counselling and financial advice
- Store discounts, including at Big Save Furniture, Harvey Norman, PB Tech, and more
- Gym membership and car rental discounts
- Cultural supervision and education to support your work with Pacific communities

Me pēhea te tono mai | How to Apply
Click 'Apply here' to upload your CV and cover letter to Seek. In your cover letter, tell us about your personal journey with mental distress, what you've learned, and the value it has added to your life. This role will be advertised until filled, so don't wait—apply today!

Added 24 September 2024