Exploring support work: Examining the role of mental health support workers in New Zealand

Abstract or Summary

Exploring Support Work examines the role and function of mental health support work in New Zealand from the perspective of healthcare professionals, service users and support workers themselves. A conceptualisation for support work practice is offered based on the thematic and functional analysis given. This support work conceptualisation is complimented in the second section, which focuses on ethical issues commonly found in support work. The conclusion of the book provides a theoretical code of ethics and support worker scopes of practice which can be utilised to springboard support work into the professional domain under the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act.