Indigenous Support Worker

• Provides life skills training, coaching, advocacy, advice, and support services for clients experiencing severe substance use which could include mental health concerns, behavioural, and developmental problems and to their caregivers/families, in accordance with an established plan of treatment/care
• Motivates, assists, and instructs clients with the activities of daily living
• Reports clients progress and condition, including reactions to medications

• Diploma in Community Social Services, e.g. Mental Health Worker, Community Health Worker, Resident Care Attendant/Long Term Care Aide, or Social Services Worker including post-secondary education in counselling skills training
• Minimum two years recent related experience working with Indigenous community and resources or a combination of education and experience
• Knowledge of legislation such as the Mental Health Act and the Guardianship Act
• Knowledge of available programs, their interrelationships, and their function in delivering care in the community
• Extensive understanding and knowledge of Indigenous health issues, protocols and health needs, including the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual needs of the client and community
• Extensive knowledge of Indigenous community and resources, ideally those on Vancouver Island
• Strong knowledge of harm reduction philosophy and practice, as well as HIV, HCV and related issues
• Current Level C Basic Life Saving Certificate
• Valid Class 5 vehicle license
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing
• Ability to deal with others effectively
• Ability to prioritize and organize client demands made and care needs
• Demonstrated ability to practice from a harm reduction approach
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships and nurture an environment of quality, trauma informed and culturally safe care
• Ability to problem solve
• Ability to teach life skills
• Sound judgment and good observation skills
• Ability to demonstrate an appropriate level of initiative and independence
• Ability to work cooperatively as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Ability to promote positive change and independence
• Demonstrated ability to deliver culturally sensitive services to Indigenous populations
• Ability to maintain a focused and differentiated approach while addressing challenging situations or issues
• Physical and emotional ability to carry out the duties of the position
• Ability to operate related equipment
• Advocacy skills

Preference will be given to candidates of First Nations, Métis or Inuit heritage