Job overview

An exciting opportunity has arisen due to a promotion! We’re looking for a person with lived experience of drug/alcohol problems (either personally or through a loved one) to join  the Next Steps Network working with and for the people of Bolton to improve recovery options and wellbeing. The project works to bring Bolton’s recovery community together and help more people sustain recovery by raising awareness of services and support.

You will use your organisational, communication and people skills to support on a range of project work streams, which may include planning and running events, contributing to online and offline content, promoting the network to individuals and groups, and helping to point people in the right direction when they need support. 

Using your lived experience, understanding of recovery models and knowledge of Bolton as a place as a current or former resident, you will play a key role in promoting a healthy, happy, visible form of recovery that feels accessible and achievable for all residents of the town.

If you can answer YES to ALL the following questions, we'd love to hear from you!

- Do you live or work in Bolton, or have strong connections to Bolton?

- Do you have a passion to use your  lived experience of drugs/alcohol (personal or a loved one's) to support the growth of the Next Steps network? 

- Do you hold Level 2 Peer Mentor qualification or are willing to undertake it?

We're excited to find our new colleague!

Main duties of the job

This role is for people who have lived experience of substance use (drugs/alcohol)  either personally or through a loved one. The aim of the role is to enable the engagement of others who may benefit from enhanced community involvement and support networks, increasing visible ‘recovery’ and reducing stigma.

The Community Engagement Worker will act as an advocate,  agreeing goals with the networks and people of Bolton. They will provide ongoing practical support related to the project.

Using wisdom from your own experiences, you will inspire hope and belief that living well is possible in others. You will use your skills to support new initiatives including

• Support and promote recovery from drug/alcohol use as achievable
• Co-ordinate plans with Bolton peers to promote positive change
• Emphasise hope and optimism in engagement methods, using techniques such as motivational interviewing and rapport building.
• Work with local community resources and services to obtain optimum outcome for the project
• Focus on strengths rather than deficits, using an asset based approach
• Maintain accurate records to monitor delivery and improvement
• Support peer led, autonomous decision making with respect for difference and diversity
• Support the Community Development Coordinator with events and activities that highlight the Next Steps network

You will also be involved in opportunities to develop the community based project through training and participation in improvement initiatives.

Working for our organisation

Greater Manchester Mental Health (GMMH) Foundation Trust employs over 6,400 members of staff, who deliver services from more than 160 locations.

We provide inpatient and community-based mental health care for people living in Bolton, the city of Manchester, Salford, Trafford and the borough of Wigan, and a wide range of specialist mental health and substance misuse services across Greater Manchester, the north west of England and beyond.

Greater Manchester is one of the world's most innovative, original and exciting places to live and work. From the beauty of the surrounding countryside to the heart of the vibrant inner city with great shopping, entertainment and dining options.

Wherever you go you will experience a great northern welcome with people famed for their warmth, humour and generosity.

Our people enjoy their work, have opportunities to learn and develop their skills and are encouraged to generate new ideas that improve care for our service users.