A workforce development hub has been launched to help mental health and addiction peer support workers in Southern.
Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora (HNZ) announced yesterday it had started the hub this month to support and mentor its consumer, peer support and lived experience (CPSLE) workforce.
Hub leader Carron Cossens said the hub aimed to make CPSLE workers feel connected, supported and valued.
She was delighted to be setting up the hub, she said.
It was part of the development of peer support services in Southern which was identified in the national mental health inquiry He Ara Oranga, and the 2021 Southern Time for Change — Te Hurihanga review.
The hub would connect CPSLE workers and volunteers across both peer and mainstream organisations in Southern to share information and would provide regular development opportunities.
"The key focus will be on building connections and networks, learning, sharing information and mentoring.
"It will also have a role in providing some training and supervision for the workforce, and co-ordinating information about other training and resources to improve practice."
The first steps in setting up the hub included a website to provide resources and training options.
Locality visits and monthly connection time online aimed to create and strengthen relationships with other CPSLE workers.
