Youth Peer Support Worker

• Christchurch – Hillmorton Health Campus - South Island Eating Disorders Service (SIEDS)

• 0.5 FTE (20 hours per week) fixed term to 30^th June 2027

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is firmly grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and is committed to building a health system that serves all New Zealanders.

Support young people on their recovery journey using your lived experience

We are seeking a passionate and empathetic Youth Peer Support Worker to join the South Island Eating Disorders Service (SIEDS). This is a relatively new and evolving role designed to enhance the experience of young tangata whaiora (up to 25 years) and their whānau throughout their treatment journey. 

About the Role

As a Youth Peer Support Worker, you will use your lived experience 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 young tangata 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 shared experience.

You will also work alongside whānau, recognising their vital role in supporting recovery and ensuring they feel included and supported throughout the process.

About the Team

SIEDS is a specialist service supporting people with a range of eating disorders across the South Island. Based within the community team in Waitaha Canterbury, we provide direct care to young people as well as specialist support to mental health services across the region.

You will be part of a multidisciplinary team, contributing a valued peer perspective to support recovery-focused care.

Key Responsibilities

• Build 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 connections

About You

Essential:

• 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 Zealand

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for the people of New Zealand. We embrace a workforce that is diverse and inclusive so that we are better positioned to understand and service our community. We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities. 

How to Apply

To apply please click “apply now.” All applications must be submitted through our online careers’ portal by Friday 15th May. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Recruitment Partner Lisa Gray on Lisa.Gray2@tewhatuora.govt.nz

We will review applications as received and may proceed with the recruitment process, before the closing date of this advert.

Whilst Health New Zealand is undergoing change, affected employees will be given preference and priority for this position.

Position description Apply now

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