Peer Mentor
Job Introduction
Turning Point- Hertfordshire Complex Needs Service is a free and flexible service that works in partnership with specialist housing teams and health and wellbeing services to support adults aged 18+ living in Hertfordshire with mental health needs and who are experiencing a range of complex issues.
The Voluntary Peer Mentor will use their lived experience of complex needs and recovery to provide one‑to‑one practical and emotional support to individuals accessing the Hertfordshire Complex Needs Service. The role aims to promote hope, empowerment, engagement with services, and positive change by building trusted, supportive relationships.
Peer Mentors act as positive role models, helping people navigate services, build confidence, and work towards their personal goals.
Role Responsibility
- Provide one‑to‑one peer support to service users, drawing appropriately on lived experience to build trust and rapport
- Offer emotional support, encouragement, and practical guidance tailored to individual needs
- Support service users to engage with services such as housing, health, substance use, mental health, education, or employment
- Attend and support individuals at appointments where appropriate
- Promote independence, self‑confidence, and resilience
- Work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, and partner agencies as part of a multi‑disciplinary team
- Maintain appropriate professional boundaries and confidentiality at all times
- Keep brief, accurate records as required by the service
- Attend supervision, training, and peer support sessions
- Uphold safeguarding, equality, diversity, and health & safety policies
The Ideal Candidate
Essential
- Lived experience of complex needs (for example: homelessness, substance misuse, mental health challenges, contact with the criminal justice system), and a period of stability and recovery
- A strong desire to support others using your experience in a positive, safe way
- Ability to listen with empathy and without judgement
- Good communication and interpersonal skills
- Reliability, honesty, and commitment
- Willingness to work within boundaries and follow policies
- Basic IT or record‑keeping skills (support provided if needed)
Desirable
- Previous volunteering or support experience
- Knowledge of local services in Hertfordshire
- Ability to work flexibly with people who may have multiple and complex needs
Time Commitment
- Flexible, typically 2–4 hours per week
- Commitment agreed in advance and reviewed regularly
Training and Support
- Full induction and role‑specific training
- Level 2 Qualification in Peer Mentoring
- Ongoing supervision and reflective support
- Access to additional training opportunities
- Reimbursement of agreed out‑of‑pocket expenses
Benefits of Volunteering
- Opportunity to use lived experience to support others
- Gain skills, confidence, and experience in peer mentoring
- Improve employability and progression opportunities
- Be part of a supportive and inclusive team
- Make a meaningful difference in your community
Safeguarding
This role is subject to safeguarding checks, including an enhanced DBS check where required. Volunteers must adhere to all safeguarding policies and procedures.
Turning Point