Indigenous Relations Specialist

Niagara Health is embarking on a new quality improvement collaborative to better support Indigenous patients and their families. Reporting to Manager, Indigenous Health Services and Reconciliation, the Indigenous Relations Specialist
- Staff Development, will work collaboratively with the Indigenous Health Services and Reconciliation Team, hospital leadership, clinical staff, interdisciplinary teams, and community partners to drive organizational change and improve the delivery of culturally appropriate care. The IRS-Staff Development, will also provide training and support to policies, practices and services that align with the needs and values of the Indigenous community.
The IRS-Staff Development, will develop and implement a comprehensive assessment of organizational process, policies and services related to Indigenous health equity. The IRS-Staff Development will identify gaps and areas for improvement to support the delivery of culturally safe and respectful care through wholistic Indigenous approaches. The successful applicant must be willing and available to travel between multiple hospital sites and work evenings/weekends, as required.

**COLLABORATION**:

- Develop network of traditional practitioners as well as Medical professionals who use holistic approaches where applicable.
- Establish partnerships with external organizations and agencies on Indigenous Health Equity to exchange knowledge and resources.

**TRAINING & EDUCATION**:

- Work with clinical teams across Niagara Health to review current practices and resources to identify gaps and opportunities to create and support Indigenous patients.
- Develop and deliver training programs to raise awareness and enhance cultural competency among hospital staff.
- Provide education around historical, cultural and socio-demographic factors that impact Indigenous health outcomes.
- Assist with resource development and implementation.
- Increase awareness of current resources, programs and opportunities to build partnerships and collaborate.

**POLICY DEVELOPMENT**:

- Review policies and procedure for adjustment and alignment to maintain and ensure culturally safe practice is embedded where applicable.
- Ensure relevant legislation, regulations and ethical guidelines related to Indigenous health are integrated into Niagara Health policies.

**MONITORING & EVALUATION**:

- Establish metrics and indicators to measure progress in achieving program goals and health outcomes.
- Regularly monitor and evaluate the impact of organizational changes and intervention.
- Prepare reports and presentations to communicate progress, challenges and recommendations as needed.

**QUALIFICATIONS**:

- Post-secondary education in Indigenous Health, Health Sciences, or related field and/or relevant experience or equivalent combination of education, experience, and understanding of the unique perspectives of Indigenous communities.
- Regulated health care professional in good standing with a regulatory college.
- Five years of working experience with the Indigenous population in an inpatient or outpatient medical/physical rehabilitation setting.
- Knowledge and experience with traditional ceremonies and healing practices.
- Lived experience (must self-identify as Indigenous).
- Strong knowledge of the history of Indigenous Peoples and the impact of intergenerational trauma.
- Familiarity with system navigation models and principles.
- Knowledge of local Indigenous organizations and community resources.
- Ability to perform some culturally relevant ceremonies would be an asset.
- Excellent communication skills (both written and oral).
- Superior interpersonal, collaboration, facilitation, and negotiation skills.
- Strong problem-solving abilities.
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a multi-disciplinary team environment.
- Possession of a valid driver's license and access to a reliable vehicle.
- Vaccines (COVID-19 and others) are a new hire requirement of the job unless you have an exemption based on medical or on a ground pursuant to the Ontario Human Rights Code.
Recruitment Specialist: Breanna Addabbo
- We are especially interested in connecting if you _
- Value diversity, equity and inclusion; _
- Are excited about being part of a respectful and hard-working team in the beautiful Region of Niagara;_
- Identify as a member of one or more of the following equity-deserving groups: Indigenous, racialized, persons with disabilities, persons of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities and all others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas._
- Have background or expertise in the healthcare environment, supporting patient care and providing extraordinary customer-service._
- In accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 and the Ontario Human Rights Code, Niagara Health will provide accommodations through the recruitment process to applicants with disabilities. If selected to participate in the recruitment a