Transition Services Case Worker (Permanent, Full-time)

JOB SUMMARY

As part of multi-disciplinary team, this position is responsible for providing case management and housing location services to persons experiencing chronic or episodic homelessness as well as those requiring rapid rehousing services or housing loss prevention. Dependent on participant requirements, the Transition Services Case Worker will partner with various programs within Siloam Mission and the community to streamline and administer individualized services. The responsibilities of this position also include coordinating and participating in assessments, crisis intervention, access to social services, supportive counselling and referrals.

KEY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Prioritize housing location with participants, assisting them in finding and maintaining permanent housing as quickly as possible
• Develop an individualized service plan in collaboration with participants addressing short term and long-term goals
• Provide management services in the area of, but not limited to independent living skills, housing stabilization, money management, community integration, employment linkage, benefits establishment, linkage to community providers for substance use, primary and mental health care, and all other services needed to assist participants in reaching their treatment plan goals;
• Provide strength-based case management and service coordination services designed to assist participants in obtaining and maintaining stable housing;
• Provide ongoing case management supports to assess progress and ensure service plan outcomes are met or changed as needed;
• Establish partnerships with landlords, and advocate on behalf of program participants;
• Support the participant to create stability in housing and with eviction prevention;
• Meet with participants in the community and in their homes to assist in the transition to living and integrating in the community;
• Act as an advocate for the needs of the participants of Siloam Mission;
• Maintain participant records in a timely manner;
• Monitor, evaluate and communicate the progress of participants with the participants themselves, team members and the supervisors on a regular basis.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Completion of a health or human service diploma/degree such as social work, psychology, conflict resolution or equivalent years of experience
• Experience and demonstrated knowledge in mental health and/or addiction field
• Experience in case management, completing assessments, service planning, and goal setting
• Experience working in Housing First and an understanding of a variety of housing models including Housing First and Recovery-based

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/BEHAVIORS

• Knowledge of community resources for homelessness, health, mental health and substance use
• Good working knowledge of the housing resources available in the community
• Demonstrated understanding of the unique issues and barriers affecting those experiencing poverty and homelessness
• Good understanding of colonization and its impact on Indigenous peoples
• Ability to work within a harm-reduction framework
• Ability to work from a trauma-informed perspective
• Excellent critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Highly developed understanding of and proven ability to communicate appropriate professional boundaries
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to form relationships
• Demonstrate maturity and excellent ability to work well in a team
• A compassionate and empathetic outlook and ability to convey these characteristics in relationship with participants
• Experienced user of Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook
• Experience in working with HIFIS4 an asset
• Certification in or demonstrated knowledge of NVCI, ASIST, CRP/First Aid, Mental Health First Aid training (MHFA), Motivational Interviewing is preferred

RELATIONSHIP

• Building professional relationships with participants
• Liaise, advocate, collaborate and represent Siloam to other agencies within the sector
• Work with other departments within Siloam Mission

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Hours of work are 40 hours per week, with minimum one evening shift per week, occasional weekend hours, and up to four overnight field trips per year
• Will require working alone with participants and visiting participants in their homes
• Hazardous conditions could potentially include unpredictable or risky behaviours from community members
• Must have a valid Class 5F driver’s license, a clear driver abstract, a vehicle in good condition, and be willing to drive participants to appointments
• May be required to lift up to 50 lbs. occasionally and assist participants with moving related to housing

WORKPLACE HEALTH & SAFETY

The incumbent contributes to making the organization safe for participants and staff and recognizes the importance of reporting unsafe situations and participating in follow up reviews as a learning opportunity.

• Provides a safe environment by ensuring adherences to Workplace Safety and Health
• Regulations and Policies, Infection Control Guidelines, WHMIS and Safe Work Procedures. Immediately investigates and recommends corrective action on any unsafe acts, work conditions, incidents, near misses, injuries or illnesses.
• Demonstrates understanding of role and responsibilities in fire prevention and disaster preparedness and participates in safety and health training programs including the facility’s Fire, Disaster and Evacuation Plan.