Relief Counsellor

**Position Scope**:
Utilizing person-directed plans, the Relief Counsellor will assist and take direction from full-time staff, implementing pre-planned programs, providing personal care and maintaining safety and cleanliness of the facility.

The Relief Counsellor will be used on an as needed/on call basis or, may be scheduled in for specific reasons, i.e. filling in when regular staff are not available, or to carry out a particular program. The individual in this position reports to The Club supervisor.

**Responsibilities**:
FUTURES supports healthy relationships between and among all of the people and organizations with whom we deal, internally and externally. The Relief Counsellor will contribute to this direction through their respectful behaviour and attitude towards others.

The Relief Counsellor supports people in maximizing their independence and self-reliance by providing opportunities for continuous learning and by supporting and respecting self-determination through person-directed planning.

The Relief Counsellor will represent FUTURES in a positive and professional manner, both onsite and in the community. Professionalism will be demonstrated by dress, attitude and all work related interactions. Staff of FUTURES are also expected to maintain an appropriate image within the community such as when on personal social media sites.

Professional communication is an expectation. All forms of communication will be respectful, clear, accurate and effective. Written documentation will be professional and will demonstrate proficiency with written English.

FUTURES is committed to maintaining workplaces and working conditions that are healthy and safe for all. The Relief Counsellor is jointly responsible for ensuring that our workplace and working conditions are safe and healthy by correcting and reporting any and all hazards as per policy.

**Duties**:
**A. Program**
- Implement programs (social, leisure, recreation) as planned and directed by full-time staff.
- Assist participants in attaining their goals.

**B. Personal Support Services**
- Provide personal care to participants as required in a respectful and supportive manner.
- Assist as needed with meals and snacks while being alert to individual preferences/requirements.
- Provide appropriate role modelling for participants through behaviour, dress and attitude and support participants to do the same.
- Ensure the safety and security of participants at all times while respecting their choices.
- Physically support participants with activities they enjoy i.e. walks, outings, games, swimming, skating etc.
- Encourage and facilitate peer interaction among the participants.

**C. Communication**
- Read the staff meeting minutes each week.
- Communicate any concerns, changes or questions to the supervisor.
- Read and keep up to date on written reports, documentation, etc.

**D. General Expectations**
- Meet basic work requirements; i.e. on time, appropriate appearance, alert, dependable, courteous.
- Ensure work conditions are safe and maintain cleanliness.
- Display a positive attitude, be open to new ideas and contribute to staff morale.
- Seek input, accepts direction and constructive feedback and deal with conflict in an appropriate manner.
- Be aware of and follow policies.
- Demonstrate flexibility, creativity and initiative in day to day work.
- As a not for profit we do hold fundraising events and it is appreciated when staff participates.

**E. Other related duties**
- Assist with daily cleaning and maintenance of the facility.
- Other duties as required.

**Qualification**:

- Experience working with persons with intellectual disabilities.
- 7 core competencies are preferred.
- A criminal record check completed within the past 3 months is required.

**Working Conditions**:

- Position requires work at various places and in varying conditions; this may include indoors, outdoors; work environments that are cold, hot, wet, loud, etc.
- This position does require physical activity (standing, walking, lifting, bending, swimming, pushing people in wheelchairs etc.)
- Strength to handle loads up to 30 kgs. may be required and regular loads of 23 kgs.
- Physical stamina to be able to work in a fast paced environment for a full shift.

**Attributes**:

- Values and beliefs that emphasize enhancing the experience of persons with disabilities.
- Good communication skills.
- Dependable and reliable.
- Creative and flexible approach to daily activities and problem solving/critical thinking skills.
- A self starter who is energetic, organized and has a positive attitude.