Zaneta Salikaite is a Peer Support Worker at Pinhoe View. She tells us about her role.
“I began training two years ago as one of the first Peer Support Workers at Elysium. They showed me the ward, introduced me to the patients and staff, and I just started introducing myself—sharing my lived experience.
“My background wasn’t in healthcare. I came from the customer service and food industry, but the job description spoke to me. It offered a chance to turn my personal journey into something meaningful for others.”
Zaneta’s understanding of mental illness is deeply personal. Originally from Lithuania, she began struggling with her mental health at 21. She faced multiple relapses, isolation, and moments of crisis. Despite being treated in the community, Zaneta knew she needed more intensive support and was hospitalised.
While recovering from another episode, Zaneta saw a job posting for a Peer Support Worker. She took it.
“I needed something to change in my life,” she says. “If I can get better, I can inspire hope for others.”
Today, she supports up to 38 patients across two wards. Her days are filled with conversations, listening, and documenting care notes to help the wider team.
“There is a chance to get better,” she tells patients. “I’m here to show you that.”
Zaneta attends daily Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) meetings with Psychiatrists, Occupational Therapists, and Nurses. While she’s still learning the clinical jargon, her insights are invaluable. She’s also a bridge between patients and staff, helping to foster psychological safety and understanding. Additionally, she is involved in the Peer Support Worker Framework agenda task and finishing the project at Elysium.
Zaneta’s impact is clear. Patients seek her out and staff praise her dedication. She’s even been nominated for Staff Member of the Month. “I wish I had made this decision a long time ago,” she reflects. “I can see how it makes a difference.”
Mandy Fullarton, Clinical Associate Psychologist at Pinhoe View, shares,“Working alongside Zaneta has been an invaluable part of our mental health service. She brings authenticity, empathy and hope. She advocates for our patients and bridges the gap between intervention and personal understanding.”
