Peer Outreach Worker

**................................** Career Opportunity**

**Position Title**:..........**Peer Outreach Worker

**Classification**:.........**Counsellor, Level 2

**Job Type**:..........**......** Permanent, Part Time, 0.6 FTE (21 hs/week)

**..........**..........**..........**..**Day, evening, overnight, and weekend shift work will be required

**Department**:..........**Supportive Housing & Substance Use Health

**Location**:..........**.......** Various Locations

**Reporting to**:..........**..**Outreach Manager

**Compensation**:..........**$27.92/hr - $33.68/hr plus a comprehensive compensation package **..........**..........**..........**...**that includes time-off entitlements, health benefits, life insurance, **..........**..........**..........**...**and participation in the HOOPP pension plan.

**Deadline to apply**:......**September 25, 2025 by 5:00pm**

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**About us**

We are Somerset West Community Health Centre (SWCHC), a non-profit, community-governed organization that serves over 18,000 clients annually. Established in 1978, SWCHC provides a wide range of health care services such as primary health care, health promotion, community development, mental health, and harm reduction. We are deeply connected to the communities we serve and committed to removing barriers to accessing services for people who experience vulnerabilities because of their age, income, ability, sexual orientation or gender identity, and language or culture.

SWCHC strives to ensure that our team reflects the communities we serve. We work within an anti-racist, anti-oppressive framework that acknowledges the existence and impacts of systemic racism and seeks to ensure that systems are fair and equitable for everyone.

**What the Program Entails**

We are seeking passionate, dedicated individuals to join our dynamic team in the **Supportive Housing & Substance Use Health** and contribute to meaningful change in the community.

Join us at SWCHC and become part of a dedicated team that is making a difference by providing integrated, person-centered care that empowers individuals and fosters lasting change.

**What You’ll Do**

Reporting to the Manager, Outreach Programs, the Peer Outreach Team works as part of an interdisciplinary team to organize and support individuals dealing with substance use, mental health challenges, and homelessness.

The Peer Outreach Team will work in conjunction with all outreach programs at Somerset West CHC and Supportive Housing & Substance Use Health programs to provide a safe and accepting environment where clients can discuss their challenges without fear of judgment. This helps to reduce stigma and encourages open communication. The Peer Outreach Team will help clients access information about harm reduction strategies, such as drug poisoning prevention, and mental health resources. They will also connect clients to other services, such as: basic needs, primary care, treatment options, housing and counselling services. They may also offer support in developing coping strategies, life skills, and decision-making abilities. This empowerment will help clients take control of their lives and make informed choices. Additionally, the Peer Outreach Team will advocate for their clients within healthcare and social service systems, helping them navigate complex barriers and access the services they need.

In times of crisis, the Peer Outreach Team can provide immediate support, helping clients manage situations related to their substance use or mental health. Peer Outreach Team will provide ongoing encouragement and motivation, helping clients set realistic goals and celebrate their achievements, no matter how small.

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**What We’re Looking For**
- **Life and Work Experience**- Experience advocating for people who use drugs is an asset
- Experience with overdose response is an asset
- High School or postsecondary education is an asset
- 1-2 years’ experience volunteering or working in a harm reduction, drop-in or shelter program is an asset.
- **Your Education Path**- No educational requirement, this position is designated for people with living and lived experience, specifically drug use.
- High School or postsecondary education is an asset
- **Required Language**- French is an asset.
- Proficiency in other languages is considered an asset.

**What You Bring to the Table**
- Lived experience with substance use
- Know about the challenges people who use drugs face
- Know about peer-to-peer support
- Know about harm reduction gear and support
- Able to work with and be around active drug users
- Good de-escalation skills
- Welcoming and non-judgmental
- Committed to an anti-oppressive approach and treating all individuals with respect
- Able to stay calm under pressure and always be respectful to clients
- Ability to keep client information confidential
- Strong communication skills
- Strong problem solving and boundaries
- Experience with