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We are currently looking for Casual Mental Health and Addictions Peer Support Workers to join our Kotuku Crisis Respite in Brightwater, Nelson. No set shifts, hours of work vary. Kotuku Crisis Respite operates 24/7.

Various shifts include: Day shift: 10:30am - 6:30pm or 12:30pm - 8:30pm, or Overnight shift: 8:30pm - 12:30pm (16hrs)

Health Action Trust is a dynamic and innovative community organisation specialising in community health promotion initiatives and professional mental health and addiction peer led services. People applying must have a personal lived experience of mental illness or distress to undertake this role. 

Our teams work across: Nikau Hauora Hub, Wahi Oranga, Nelson Hospital Emergency Department, Kotuku Crisis Respite and Nelson Community Services. These roles would best suit people ready to learn, grow and move forward with their career in the Mental health & Addiction field.

Why consider Peer support? As one of the growing areas in the mental health and addiction sectors, this is the opportunity to work in areas that are rewarding because you make a real difference. Our diverse team works together with community, cultural and clinical partners to walk alongside people seeking wellness, nurturing real hope and possibilities for the people we support.

We offer:

  • A friendly and supportive workplace, professional development, training, and coaching

  • Intentional Peer Support Programme

  • Work life balance

  • Self-improvement, career options and pathways

  • Sector standard remuneration and entitlements

  • Additional annual leave allocation 

  • Internal coaching and mentoring

  • Environment that promotes personal and professional growth


The ideal candidate will have:

  • Experience in mental health and addictions, a health-based environment or community health sector.

  • A lived experience of mental illness/distress and/or addiction

  • Flexibility/availability

  • Good oral and written communication skills

  • Proven ability to work positively and effectively within a team environment.

  • A natural affinity with people, demonstrating caring and empathy.

  • Good time-management skills

  • Current full driver’s licence

  • Current first aid certificate (preferred)

  • Level 4 certificate in Health and Wellbeing /equivalence or experience (preferred)

  • Be willing to undergo further training

Applications will be considered as they are received. Applications close: Friday 20th November at 4.00 pm, or earlier if the position is filled.

To be considered for this role, please submit your Employee Application Form along with your CV and cover letter. Please include the following in your cover letter:

What is your understanding of Peer Services?

How does your lived experience inform your practice as a Peer Support Worker? 

The application form and job description can be found on our website http://www.healthaction.org.nz under the “Careers” tab.