Special Notice / Hearing: None__
Vote Required: Majority
To: Honorable Board of Supervisors
From: Supervisor David J. Canepa, District 5
Subject: Resolution to Recognize and Express Support for Peer Work in San Mateo County
RECOMMENDATION:
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Adopt a resolution to recognize and express support for Peer Work in the County of San Mateo.
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BACKGROUND:
Peer Support Specialists have long been integral to behavioral health programs, leveraging their lived experiences to provide unique and effective support. Their role is recognized and reimbursed by Medi-Cal and other insurers. California recently began certifying these specialists, emphasizing their importance in the Recovery Model of care. San Mateo County’s Office of Consumer and Family Affairs has employed peer workers since 2004 and will mark its 20th anniversary in 2024.
DISCUSSION:
The proposed resolution seeks to acknowledge the critical role of Peer Support Workers and express support for that work in the County of San Mateo. By adopting the resolution, the Board will:
1. Recognize the Value of Peer Support Workers: Affirm the essential role of these specialists in behavioral health services and their unique contributions through lived experience.
2. Support efforts that explore expansion of Peer Services: potentially broadening the scope of peer services, their integration into multidisciplinary treatment teams as well as efforts to advocate for increased funding and resources.
3. Promote Certification and Training: explore expansion of Peer Support Specialists’ access to certification and training programs that enhance their skills and effectiveness.
4. Highlight Achievements: Celebrate the achievements of the Office of Consumer and Family Affairs and its ongoing commitment to improving systems and support for individuals facing behavioral health challenges.
By adopting this resolution, the Board will reinforce the importance of peer work and the effectiveness of its impact on behavioral health work in the County of San Mateo.
FISCAL IMPACT:
None