Caseworker

The Caseworker represents and applies the general philosophies and policies of the Victoria Addictions & Rehabilitation Centre (Victoria A.R.C.) to its residents, visitors, other agencies, and staff.

The Caseworker is responsible for the development and delivery of daily-organized activities and one-to-one consultations that will engage, encourage, and motivate the residents to make behavioral changes to find greater independence and maintain stable housing.

The Caseworker supports the well-being of clients with awareness of factors including their physical, psychological, social, and spiritual health, and provides crisis support, ongoing support, and referral services to all CRF Program Residents. Through the use of client-centered case management, Stages of Change Interventions and Motivational Interviewing techniques the caseworker assists individuals in developing life skills, self-empowerment, and integration back into society, culture and their community. The incumbent will demonstrate high levels of flexibility and creativity and be able to organize and prioritize their responsibilities effectively on a daily basis.

**HOURS**:

- 37.5 hours/week. Monday - Friday 11:00 am - 7:00 pm.

**KEY RESPONSIBILITIES**:
The caseworker is required to conduct intake assessments, administer assessment & interventions, support & empower residents find greater independence, collect program data, maintain accurate records and create reports.

**Case management**
- Conduct intake assessments for shelter program including evaluation of client protection issues, determining immediate needs, referrals, and supports.
- Conduct intake assessments for transition housing program including soc assessment and transition housing contract.
- In collaboration with the clients, create client centered case plans focused on self-empowerment, community re-integration, and self-sufficiency.
- Assist and support clients attend important appointments.
- Assist clients in developing positive behavioral changes by using soc interventions and motivational interviewing techniques.
- May support, facilitate, or lead groups & workshops.
- Support, advocate and refer clients to community resources, such as detox, treatment, counselling, legal aid, housing, supports, etc.
- Liaise/network with the salvation army, government, and community social service providers to coordinate resources for the benefit of clients to ensure they are receiving the best possible care.
- Use non-violent crisis intervention to safely de-escalate aggressive, confrontational, angry, and / or stressed clients.
- Assist clients with acquiring necessary items to set up permanent housing - household goods, furniture, food, etc.,
- Make follow-up calls and complete follow-up documentation to determine if residents are maintaining independence.

**Administrative responsibilities**
- Maintain excellent records, including intake forms are complete and accurate.
- Ensure information is entered and/or updated accurately, on the client information system.
- Maintain confidentiality and keeps detailed & accurate client notes and case file.
- Participate and contribute in case management meetings.
- Collaborate and act as back-up for other caseworkers in the department.
- Ensure that statistical data is entered accurately and compiles statistical reports when required.
- Write reports for agencies of individuals, ensuring client's informed disclosure authorization and acts in accordance with internal policies and procedures.
- Recommend and assist in the development and delivery of new programs, supports and policies to address ongoing client needs.
- Attend community meetings, events and develop ongoing relationships within the local service providers.
- Compile progress reports and documents consistent with program policies.
- Participate in case management meetings to develop best practices and action steps to support and meet the needs of clients.
- Contribute to team meetings and participates in team building activities.
- Represent the New Hope Centre professionally at all times.

**Other duties**
- Attend all staff meetings and training seminars related to agency services if requested.
- Participate in upgrading/training at the discretion of the residential program manager.
- Other related duties according to agency needs at the discretion of the residence manager.
- Perform other duties as assigned.

**QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS**:
**Education/Certifications**:

- Completion of a post-secondary degree in a related human/social services field (Social Work, Psychology, Mental Health and Addictions, Criminology, Counselling) required.
- Enhance Reliability Clearance from Correction Services Canada is required.
- Current Occupational First Aid Level 1 or equivalent required.
- Clear TB Skin test required.
- Non-violent Crisis Intervention training is an asset.

**Experience**:

- At least five (5) years of recent, relevant experience in supporting those with p