Residential Caseworker, Safe / Crisis House (Anti-Human Trafficking Services)

About this position

The Residential Caseworker works as part of a team under the direction and supervision of the Program Coordinator and Manager (or designate). The individual assists with specialized day-to-day care and counselling to the young women residing in the Safe House program. They will be able to work well in a dynamic work and team setting. The Residential Caseworker is scheduled to work 40 hours per week, based on a rotating shift schedule, which will include 8-hour shifts during the day, afternoons, and overnights.

Areas of Responsibility:

• Builds positive, respectful, and non-judgmental relationships with youth and their support systems
• Provides direct service, assessment and case management services to all youth living in the safe house using a trauma-informed approach
• Oversees the operations of the safe house including monitoring its health and safety, fostering its sanctuary, enforcing house rules, policies and procedures, responding to crisis situations, and other duties as required
• Assesses and works with clients in order to implement a strategic plan of care all while providing ongoing support
• Advocates on the youth’s behalf and acts as a positive role model for youth
• Distributes, documents, and administers medication to the youth as required
• Attends medical, dental, optical, and other appointments and documents outcomes in accordance with Agency standards
• Supervises and participates in pre-planned residential activities and special events
• Operates as part of a team and shares decision making, duties, and communicates effectively while on shift
• Participates as a member of the team, taking initiative and assuming responsibility
• Assists with training and directing volunteers, students, part-time and relief staff
• Maintains positive relationships and interacts with various segments of the community including (but not limited to) referral bodies, CAS, client family members, neighbours, Property Management personnel, etc.
• Keeps abreast of trends, community resources and developments in the youth care profession by participating in workshops, conferences, and continued professional development
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Manager or designate

Successful candidates will have:

• A degree and/or diploma from a University or College in a related field with experience working with vulnerable populations; prior experience working with women and girls is considered an asset
• The ability to maintain and encourage confident assessment, counselling and program facilitation skills in order to engage, support, and interact with clients using a trauma-informed approach
• Practical knowledge and experience facilitating gender specific and responsive programming
• A thorough understanding of issues pertaining to youth
• Knowledge of relevant legislations and a strong understanding of case management principles
• Demonstrated client-focused counselling skills and role modelling
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; proven leadership skills and strong knowledge of community resources
• Ability to be adaptable with a flexible approach taking into consideration the unique needs and qualities of each client
• Diagnostic and interpersonal skills to deal with a diverse client group in a diplomatic and non-judgmental manner
• Problem solving and leadership skills, with the ability to judiciously handle crisis situations with clients
• A broad knowledge of community resources and the ability to strongly advocate for clients and make professional referrals
• Valid First Aid / CPR certification
• A clear Vulnerable Sector Screening (VSS) – criminal background check
• A valid Ontario driver’s license