Peer Support Workers (Older Adults)
Community Mental Health
Issue date: 6/12/2022
Funding locations: Bedford, Central Bedfordshire & Luton
Funding duration: 12 months
Funding amount: £52,832
(Total posts: 1.6 WTE Peer Support Workers)
Funding applications return deadline: 23:59 on 29/1/2023
We are inviting applications from local VCSEs to support the extension of the offer for Older Adults experiencing complex mental health problems as we develop our new community mental health services in Bedford, Central Bedfordshire and Luton. There is an opportunity for workers with lived experience to work as an integrated member of our mental health services. They will provide peer support for Older Adults with functional serious mental illness. They will have lived experience of mental illness and will be representative of the group they will be working with. They will work as an integrated member of the local Community Mental Health Team and forge a close working relationship with The Older Adults Countywide People Participation Lead.
Funding is available to provide at least 1x 0.4 WTE (Whole Time Equivalent) worker in Bedford and 2x 0.4 WTE in Central Bedfordshire (1 based in Dunstable and 1 based in Biggleswade) and 1x 0.4 WTE in Luton for a 12month contract in the first instance.
Mental health services across England are undergoing a major transformation as promoted by the government’s Long Term Plan for the NHS. The Community Mental Health Framework for Adults and Older Adults describes how the Long Term Plan’s vision for a place-based community mental health model can be realised. It describes a need to align primary and secondary care mental health offers and target resources on closing gaps in access, outcome and experience for those who experience serious mental illness (SMI).
It is acknowledged that there are often inequalities in accessing appropriate support for Older Adults with serious mental illness. This project aims to integrate the support and to tailor an offer that removes barriers to treatment. Particular attention needs to be paid to ensure the offer is culturally competent and represents the community served.
If you would like support to complete or review your application contact Compass Wellbeing CIC (funding@compasswellbeing.co.uk) and we will refer you to an independent advisor who will assist you free of charge. The last day to request for this support is Sunday 22nd January 2023.
Expression of interest to our funding opportunities are now closed.