PDA in MH Peer Support - University of West of Scotland
The Professional Development Award (PDA) in Mental Health Peer Support is designed to facilitate candidates in the role of peer support worker.
The Professional Development Award (PDA) in Mental Health Peer Support is designed to facilitate candidates in the role of peer support worker.
What is the PDA about?
The Professional Development Award (PDA) in Mental Health Peer Support is designed to facilitate candidates in the role of peer support worker. The PDA equips candidates with the knowledge, skills and values which are necessary to carry out this role. It was developed by the Scottish Recovery Network and Scottish Qualifications Authority.
Who is the course for?
The PDA in Mental Health Peer Support is aimed primarily at candidates who wish to develop their skills in mental health peer support. The primary target group consists of individuals who have personal experience of mental health problems and who wish to take on the role of peer support workers. This could also include candidates who wish to provide peer support in addictions settings. People with lived experience in other roles would also find this course beneficial where drawing on personal experience is a useful and valued skill, for example education, training and research.
What will students learn?
The course consists of two Mandatory Units;
The PDA in Mental Health Peer Support is worth 16 SCQF credit points at SCQF level 7
When will the course begin?
Unit one will commence Jan/Feb 2018. Each unit will be delivered over the course of 10 weeks and consist of 5 classroom sessions held fortnightly, with the expectation that candidates will complete other learning activities in between sessions.
Access
Entry to this qualification will be at the discretion of UWS. However, candidates wishing to take this PDA should be able to demonstrate awareness of, and active involvement in, mental health support or addictions either in the capacity of paid employment or as a volunteer. This can be in a variety of settings including peer support groups, peer education, peer research, NHS, statutory, 3rd sector, prison services and voluntary organisations. For those interested in education or training, UWS have a number of placement opportunities within the Health, Nursing and Midwifery School.
Cost
The cost of the PDA is £500.
Further information: http://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/files_ccc/SQA_PDA_Mental_Health_A4_Web-1.pdf