Caregiver Support Lead

**Position: Caregiver Support Lead (permanent part-time)**

**Hours**:25 hours/week

**Job type**: Hybrid

**Starting Wage**:$27.50/hour

**Starting Date**:December/January

**Benefits**:Flexible work schedule, mileage compensation, cell phone allowance, paid wellness days, three weeks of paid vacation in the first year.

The Cowichan Family Caregivers Support Society is seeking a part-time Caregiver Support Lead. The focus of this role is to provide support to family caregivers throughout the Cowichan Valley through; one-to-one emotional support, running support groups, providing information on caregiver resources and educational offerings, and assisting caregivers as they navigate local community and healthcare system resources.

**Responsibilities**:

- Provide compassionate, professional, and meaningful support for caregivers in one-to-one and support group settings; in person, by telephone, and digitally. This includes boundary setting, safety, confidentiality, and timely follow-up.
- Maintain the highest standards of confidentiality and protection of privacy for clients.
- Process referrals and maintain appropriate and consistent service contact levels with clients.
- Work cooperatively and professionally with referral sources, community colleagues, and rental facility contacts.
- Complete accurate and comprehensive records (case notes) promptly, including quantitative and qualitative information on the provided CFCSS platform.
- Attend and actively participate in all staff meetings and community learning events.
- Maintain professional and timely communication with the CFCSS team.
- Maintain/update calendars and appointments on the CFCSS platforms and complete reports and evaluations as required.
- Facilitate Support groups. Effectively communicate support group expectations and ensure all participants have an opportunity to share safely and according to the CFCSS group guidelines.
- Communicate clinical challenges and at-risk caregivers promptly. Ensure caregivers are assessed for distress and signs of burnout and refer them accordingly.
- Ensure Covid-19/seasonal flu safety measures are communicated and/or implemented when deemed necessary by the organization.

**Knowledge & Skills**
- Ability to communicate effectively and professionally, both verbally and written, with good attention to detail.
- Ability to establish and maintain clear professional therapeutic boundaries while providing compassionate support (with empathy, non-judgement, tact, integrity, and confidentiality).
- Proficient use of computers and different systems, including Microsoft Suite (Word, Excel, etc). Understanding and comfort with Gdrive and Gmail. Demonstrated ability to navigate the CFCSS data management systems and complete data entry, keyboard 35 WPM.
- Experienced, and demonstrated success with group facilitation skills.
- Have the physical ability to set up and take down support group rooms and one-to-one support meeting spaces as required. This includes moving tables, stacking chairs, etc.
- Ability to work independently managing a fluctuating caseload and flexible schedule with integrity.
- A demonstrated sensitivity and awareness of intercultural and inclusive communities.
- Knowledge of community and Island Health resources for caregivers is an asset.

**Other Job Requirements**
- Valid driver’s license in good standing. Vehicle in good working condition with winter tires during the winter season (mileage allowance included).
- Ability to work both in the office and remotely from home with a designated private workspace.
- Ability to drive for off-site meetings as required.
- Responsible use and care of CFCSS computer hardware (provided).
- Satisfactory vulnerable sector screening (criminal record check).
- Physically and emotionally able to perform the duties of the position.
- Ability/willingness to follow Island Health policies and protocols related to immunizations and vaccination.
- Background in social services (psychology, counselling, mental health) and/or community support work.
- Experience facilitating support groups.
- Understanding of issues facing caregivers and their families, including emotional and mental health, issues related to caregiving including loss, grief, burnout, self-care, dementia, etc.
- Experience working with older adults and seniors.
- Experience and/or knowledge regarding dementia and/or a willingness to learn more.
- Experience and/or knowledge of Island Health and/or healthcare environments.

This posting will remain open until filled. Due to the flexibility in hours and days needed for the position, local applicants will be considered first. (Please note that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.)

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

Pay: From $27.50 per hour

Expected hours: 25 per week

**Benefits**:

- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off

Schedule:

- Monday to Friday

Application question(s):

- Are you comfortable providing emotional support and talking with clie