Health & Clinical Support Workers
Christchurch - Hillmorton Health Campus - South Island Eating Disorders Service (SIEDS)0.5 FTE (20 hours per week) fixed term to 30thJune 2027Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is firmly grounded in theprinciples of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and is committed to building a health systemthat serves all New Zealanders.Support young people on their recovery journey using yourlived experienceWe are seeking a passionate and empathetic Youth PeerSupport Worker to join the South Island Eating Disorders Service (SIEDS).
Thisis a relatively new and evolving role designed to enhance the experience ofyoung tangata whaiora (up to 25 years) and their whānau throughout theirtreatment journey. About the RoleAs a Youth Peer Support Worker, you will use your livedexperience of an eating disorder (as a young person) to connect with, support,and inspire others currently navigating recovery.You will act as a bridge between clinicians and youngtangata whaiora, helping to strengthen communication, improve access to care,and enhance clinical outcomes.
Through building authentic peer relationships,you will provide hope, encouragement, and practical support grounded in sharedexperience.You will also work alongside whānau, recognising their vitalrole in supporting recovery and ensuring they feel included and supportedthroughout the process.About the TeamSIEDS is a specialist service supporting people with a rangeof eating disorders across the South Island.Based within the community team inWaitaha Canterbury, we provide direct care to young people as well asspecialist support to mental health services across the region.You will be part of a multidisciplinary team, contributing avalued peer perspective to support recovery-focused care.Key ResponsibilitiesBuild genuine, trusting peer relationships with young tangata whaiora (under 25) Use your lived experience to inspire hope and support recovery journeys Promote choice, self-determination, and active participation in care planning Support connections with whānau, communities, and other services Act as a link between tangata whaiora, whānau, and the clinical team Contribute to a positive, inclusive team culture Communicate clearly and contribute to documentation and quality initiatives Support or facilitate group-based peer support (training provided if required) Challenge stigma and promote inclusion, diversity, and understanding Maintain knowledge of community and NGO mental health supports to provide practical connectionsAbout YouEssential:Personal lived experience of an eating disorder as a young person, including engagement with support services Ability to use your lived experience appropriately in a peer support role Strong self-awareness, including wellbeing, self-care, and stress management Confident and appropriately assertive, with a professional and accountable approach Commitment to ongoing learning and development Understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and commitment to culturally responsive practice Strong communication skills and ability to connect with a wide range of people Ability to work both independently and as part of a team Demonstrated networking and community engagement skills Full driver's licence Desirable:Experience working as a Peer Support Worker Knowledge of community and NGO mental health services Working at Health New ZealandHealth New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuringexcellent healthcare for the people of New Zealand.
We embrace a workforce thatis diverse and inclusive so that we are better positioned to understand andservice our community. We welcome applications from our diverseMāori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities. How to ApplyTo apply please click 'apply now.' All applicationsmust be submitted through our online careers' portal by Friday 15th May.If you have any questions about therole, please contact Recruitment Partner Lisa Gray onLisa.Gray2@tewhatuora.govt.nzWe will review applications as received and may proceedwith the recruitment process, before the closing date of this advert.Whilst Health New Zealand is undergoing change, affectedemployees will be given preference and priority for this position.