Domestic Violence Consultant

**Gillian’s Place**

As one of the first shelters of its kind in Ontario, Gillian’s Place brings over 45 years of experience and expertise in gender-based violence services in Niagara. Since 1977, we have grown from an eight-bed emergency shelter to a multi-site provider of free and confidential services that support women, children, genderqueer, Two-Spirit, trans, and non-binary individuals escaping the cycle of violence and abuse. Today, these services include a 34-bed emergency shelter, second-stage housing, a 24/7 phone or text crisis support line, safety planning, expert counselling, child and youth programs, legal advice and support, education and violence prevention programs, and a transitional housing and support program.

**Why you want to join our team**

**At Gillian’s Place, we know that great care starts with a great team. Here’s what you can expect when you join us**:

- Work with a passionate and supportive team that’s changing lives every day
- Make a meaningful impact in the lives of women and gender-diverse individuals.
- Realize your aspirations and achieve your personal and professional goals in an inclusive and supportive environment
- Develop your skills through professional development opportunities, mentorship and wellness programs
- Be part of a truly inclusive, equity-driven organization where you can thrive

**Benefits (after 3 months)**
- Health and Dental Coverage
- Accrue up to 15 paid sick days annually.
- Three weeks of paid vacation (starts accruing at 3 months)

**About the Role**

The **Domestic Violence Consultant (DVC)** plays a critical role in the coordinated Domestic Violence Response Initiative, supporting clients involved with **Family and Children’s Services Niagara (FACS)**. The DVC provides **trauma-informed, feminist-based intervention, education, and advocacy** to individuals and families impacted by domestic violence.

Working in close collaboration with both **Gillian’s Place** and **FACS**, the DVC navigates complex systems - including child welfare, legal, and community supports - to improve outcomes for survivors. This position includes attending home visits, offering consultation to child protection staff, participating in case conferences, and leading training sessions to strengthen the capacity of professionals working with families exposed to domestic violence.

**Key Responsibilities**
- Act as a specialist consultant to child protection workers on cases involving domestic violence, enhancing their ability to assess risk and respond appropriately.
- Build and promote a collaborative, coordinated child protection response for families impacted by domestic violence.
- Assist in the development and delivery of education and training to FACS staff and leadership on the DVC program, risk assessment tools, safety planning and the impacts of child exposure to domestic violence.
- Participate in and initiate community partner meetings, conferences, and team consultations in support of FACS staff and clients.
- Work collaboratively with Gillian’s Place and FACS Senior Managers to evaluate and improve the DVC program, including related protocols and procedures.
- Attend home visits with or without child protection workers, including urgent and emergency situations.
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation in accordance with organizational and legislative requirements.
- Work independently and effectively manage a high-volume, often fast-paced caseload

**What you bring**

**Skills and Traits**
- Proven ability to support clients with complex needs, including mental health challenges and substance use.
- Strong crisis intervention and de-escalation skills.
- Experience delivering training or consultation in a professional setting is considered a strong asset.
- High emotional intelligence, discretion, and professional judgement.
- Collaborative and adaptable approach with strong problem-solving abilities.
- Excellent organizational and time-management skills; able to work independently with mínimal supervision.

**Experience and Education**
- Post-Secondary degree in Social Work or related field and **a minimum of 5 years' experience supporting individuals impacted by gender-based violence**. Equivalent experience may be considered.
- Deep understanding of harm reduction, child welfare systems, and intersecting forms of oppression.
- Current certification in First Aid and CPR
- Satisfactory vulnerable sector police check is required.
- Valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle.

**How to Apply**:
If you’re passionate about helping others, thrive in a fast-paced and caring environment, and want to be part of something meaningful, we’d love to hear from you

**Job Types**: Part-time, Permanent

Pay: $29.65 per hour

Expected hours: 25 per week

**Benefits**:

- Dental care
- Disability insurance
- Extended health care
- RRSP match

**Experience**:

- supporting individuals impacted by gender based violence: 5 years (required)

Work Location: In