Women's Support Worker

Applicants must be women or self‑identify as women, in accordance with bona fide occupational requirement provisions. This position requires union membership.

PLEASE Apply to [email protected] with Resume, Cover letter. Note all applicants must hold a valid First aid with CPR, Foodsafe, Drivers License, Driver's Record and have a clear Criminal Record.

Summary: Under the supervision of the Program Coordinator, works with clients to develop and implement recovery plans taking a holistic approach to women’s support.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Maintains current knowledge of and conducts self-according to Comox Valley Transition Society Vision, Mission and Values, policies, procedures, standards of practice and philosophy of service.
• Maintains privacy and confidentiality of information gained as a result of employment with CVTS.
• Works with client to interpret needs, behavior, to define problems, develops, implements and evaluates recovery plans and goals.
• Monitors clients progress and provides follow-up plans and/or recommendations
• Makes recommendations to the supervisor regarding program development, policy and procedure formulation and program evaluation.
• Ensures that the necessary equipment is in place and that program guidelines and polices are adhered to.
• Plans and implements activities and special events for a program
• Plans and facilitates structured group and individual recovery programing which enhances clients Psychological, Social, Physical, Cultural and Spiritual well-being according the individual client recovery goals.
• Teaches and assists clients in developing life skills such as: communal living; problem solving; communication; relapse prevention; coping skills; boundary setting; healthy nutrition; stress management; harm reductions; parenting; healthy relationships;
• Introduces clients to and facilitates the participation in positive recreational and social activities.
• Contributes to intake summary reports, progress summary reports, after care plan, discharge statement.
• Participates in the intake and orientation process, ensuring clients feel safe, welcome and supported.
• Participates in the orientation of volunteers, monitors and provides support to program volunteers
• Monitors and works to maintain the physical and emotional safety and comfort of residents; helps to ensure Rights and Responsibilities are met; facilitates house meetings and conflict resolution between clients;
• Participates in transition and after care planning for clients returning to community and provides follow-up support.
• Seeks feedback from clients on an ongoing basis and responds appropriately to address issues or needs.
• Provides information and makes appropriate referrals to ancillary services provided by CVTS or in the community and acts as an advocate for the client when appropriate.
• Accompanies and/or transports clients to outside services or activities.
• Maintains client records and provides statistics and produces reports as required.
• Participates in professional development and training opportunities, attends agency and team meetings regularly.
• Performs other related duties as required

Education and Experience

• Diploma in a related human /social service related field
• Certificate in addictions
• One year related experience providing support and counselling in the substance use recovery field.
• Or equivalent combination of training and experience in the substance use recovery field.

Attitude, Knowledge and Skills

• Supportive, hopeful, compassionate
• Culturally informed, responsive and appropriate, demonstrates unconditional acceptance and positive regard
• Ability to establish clear boundaries and maintain and understand the limits of confidentiality
• Understanding of the diverse context and experience of women’s lives.
• Be trauma informed – understanding the prevalence of trauma and violence in the lives of women.
• Ability to deal with seriously addicted and mentally ill clients and their families
• Practices’ a Relational approach recognizing the importance of relationships for women and establishes trusting and respectful alliance with is mutual, collaborative and individualized and reviewed regularly.
• Is client centered/led
• Sound understanding of the consequences of substance use for women including physiological, general health, family dynamics, parenting/mothering, interpersonal relationships, education and vocation, psychological, social, cultural and spiritual.
• Concurrent disorder capable
• Recovery specific knowledge in the following areas: Stages of change, Harm Reduction; Relapse Preventions; Motivational Interviewing; cognitive Behavioral Therapy; empowerment Model, Strength Based Model, 12 and 16 Step programs, Smart Recovery and Seeking Safety
• Extensive knowledge of community programs and resources
• Skilled in facilitating conflict resolution.
• Ability to work professionally, collaboratively respectfully and supportively with a wide range of internal and external partners, team, and stakeholders.
• Flexible about ideas and belief systems, values diversity
• Utilizes effective self-care strategies and is committed to personal health and wellness.
• Ability to observe and recognize behavior and/or health status changes in clients
• Ability to facilitate supportive and educational groups
• Excellent crisis assessment and intervention skills
• Ability to manage volunteer participation in program and activities
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to organize and prioritize own workload
• Ability to role model healthy lifestyle choices

Other Requirements:

• Valid Level I First Aid Certificate including CPR
• Food Safe
• Valid BC driver's license and use of personal vehicle
• Relevant Criminal Record Clearance.

Job Type: Casual

Pay: From $33.49 per hour

Expected hours: 8.0 – 37.5 per week

Benefits:

• Discounted or free food
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible schedule
• Wellness program

Licence/Certification:

• Driving Licence (required)

Work Location: In person