Organisational views of the mental health support workers role and function

Abstract

Following on from recent research (Gallaway & Smith, 2005; Pace, 2009) in a further attempt to assist Support Workers forge an identity in mental health service in New Zealand, a thematic analysis of job descriptions was conducted across six services which provide mental health rehabilitation and recovery programmes. Job descriptions were coded for 1. Roles and responsibilities, 2. Skills and knowledge, and 3. Qualification requirements.