Group Development Worker

Group Development Worker Location: Derbyshire (Field-Based)Contract: 35 Hours - PermanentSalary: £24,544.91 Make a real difference in people’s lives At Rethink Mental Illness, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to live a fulfilling life. As a Group Development Worker, you’ll play a key role in helping people affected by mental ill health connect, build confidence, and support one another through strong local communities. This is more than a job — it’s a chance to empower people, grow peer support networks, and create spaces where people feel understood, valued and hopeful. About the role You’ll work across Derbyshire to develop and support peer support groups, helping individuals come together to share experiences, build resilience, and access support in their local community. Working closely with the Derbyshire Recovery & Peer Support Service, partners and local organisations, you’ll: Grow and strengthen a network of peer support groups Help people set up and run their own groups Support groups to become independent and sustainable Build strong relationships with community partners Identify gaps in support and respond to local need Promote inclusive, accessible and welcoming spaces for all You’ll be out in the community, building connections and helping people take meaningful steps towards recovery, independence, and belonging. What you’ll be doing Supporting individuals to access or create peer support opportunities Helping groups find venues and get established Acting as a key contact for groups, offering ongoing guidance and encouragement Encouraging co-production – enabling people to shape and lead activities Building partnerships across services and community organisations Gathering feedback and measuring the impact of support Promoting equality, diversity and inclusive practice in everything you do Managing risk and safeguarding appropriately Who we’re looking for We’re looking for someone who is passionate about empowering others and making a difference in communities. You’ll bring: Experience supporting people with mental health or complex needs Strong communication and relationship-building skills The ability to motivate and engage volunteers and groups A proactive, organised and flexible approach Confidence working independently in community settings A commitment to inclusion, equity and anti-discriminatory practice Resilience, empathy and a calm approach in challenging situations ✔ A Level 2 qualification in Health & Social Care (or equivalent experience)✔ A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle Bonus if you have: Experience developing peer support groups Important information This role requires an Enhanced DBS check (Adults & Children) Regular travel across Derbyshire is required Flexibility to work evenings and weekends where needed Join us If you’re passionate about community, connection, and helping people thrive, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today and be part of something meaningful. IND1