In March 2025, dapaanz launched two new member categories: Accredited Addiction Peer Support Worker (AAPSW) and Accredited Peer Supervisor (APS).
These new member categories follow several years of consultation and research with dapaanz members, the Aotearoa Addiction Consumer, Peer Support and Lived Experience (CPSLE) workforce, as well as relevant sector agencies, organisations and educators.
By the end of November (just nine months after launching), we were pleased to have welcomed 39 Dapaanz Accredited Addiction Peer Support Workers and 16 Accredited Peer Supervisors.
We look forward to supporting more Peer Support Workers to seek accreditation and will be advocating for greater support for this addiction specialist role with employers, funders and others in the sector in the coming year.
Who can be an Accredited Addiction Peer Support Worker?
Accreditation is available for kaimahi working in an addiction peer support work role within addiction treatment services, or in services working closely with clients seeking assistance to address their addiction.
The title conferred is ‘Dapaanz Accredited Addiction Peer Support Worker’.
Dapaanz Accredited Addiction Peer Support Workers are able to work in collaboration with clients, family and whānau to provide information, education, skill development and support to assist clients to manage their recovery and wellbeing. Accredited Addiction Peer Support Workers may also implement appropriate, delegated, parts of treatment provision, under supervision.
Find out more about eligibility criteria for Dapaanz Accredited Addiction Peer Support Workers.