Summary

Gender-Based Violence Caseworker providing wrap around case management support to clients in residential, second-stage housing setting.

Description

Role Title:                               Transitional Housing Support Worker
Reports To:                             Program Supervisor
Hours of Work:                       37.5 hours per week with the ability to work flexible hours

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION:

Under the supervision of the Program Supervisor, the Transitional Housing Support Worker is responsible for providing assistance to women as they work toward independence and freedom from abuse. The Transitional Housing Support Worker is responsible for a wide range of services that address the issue of woman abuse. Key areas of responsibilities include development of transitional support plans, safety plans, community resourcing, find and maintain housing.

SUMMARY OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Wrap around case management support for women; legal and housing systems navigation and advocacy, child and youth family support, financial assistance, short and long term goal development, safety and transitional planning, short-term counseling, etc.
  • Accompany women to appointments when necessary
  • Adhere to the Child Protection Act in particular in regard to the section on “Duty to Report”
  • Assist women in advocating for themselves
  • Assist women in developing safety strategies or safety plans for themselves and their children
  • Assist women to develop short- and long-term goals
  • Assist women to understand the cycle of abuse and the effects on themselves and their children
  • Assist women with budgeting and securing financial assistance
  • Assist women with housing applications
  • Conduct intake and discharge interviews with all clients
  • Ensure intake, discharge and all other appropriate information is complete
  • Ensure that emergency and crisis situations are approached with clear and swift decisions
  • Maintain accurate referral records and security of client files
  • Maintain client case files, data management; entering information into program data base (WISH)
  • Maintain confidential, accurate and non-judgemental documentation
  • Monitor and provide feedback to women regarding connections with other referrals
  • Participate on committees as required
  • Provides crisis and short-term supportive counselling (in residence and post-Armagh stay)
  • Share on-call responsibilities with frontline team 
  • Work with women on their legal issues
  • Work with women to develop and implement transition plans sensitive to their needs
  • Ability and experience working with children an asset
  • Other duties or responsibilities as negotiated and assigned

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • 1-2 years’ relevant work experience working with abused women
  • Ability to deal effectively with job related stress and handle crisis situations
  • An awareness of the safety needs of the organization and confidentiality of the clients and agency 
  • Computer literate and database experience (Microsoft Office)
  • Current C.P.R. and First Aid training an asset
  • Current Criminal Check for Vulnerable Sector
  • Excellent interpersonal communication and organizational skills (verbal and written)
  • Experience in working and serving a diverse community
  • Possess maturity and ability to work with minimal supervision
  • Proficiency in a second language relevant to the demographics of Peel Region is an asset
  • Proven ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Sound knowledge of issues pertaining to woman abuse, post-traumatic stress, and the social services network within the Region of Peel
  • University or college degree in the human services field
  • Valid Driver's License and use of a reliable vehicle

PHYSICAL / MENTAL EFFORT:

Based on the work schedule, the frequency of the following tasks will vary according to need:

  • Ability to lift unsupported up to 25 lbs.
  • Carrying / lifting materials, donations etc. using stairs or elevator
  • Changing priorities and work flow to accommodate needs of others and scheduled/imposed timelines
  • Using a computer, monitor and other office equipment
  • Work effectively with people of varied background including the corporate sector
  • Work independently and with frequent interruptions

WORKING CONDITIONS:

  • Typical office environment for majority of the time
  • Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday – 9 am – 5 pm, Wednesday –  12 pm – 8 pm for Program night, work schedule hours are flexible due to work/time pressures, some evening and weekend work required.