Supervised Access Program

Supervised Access Worker

**JOB SUMMARY**:
The Supervised Access Program Facilitator is primarily responsible for promoting a meaningful and supportive environment to Indigenous families whose children are in foster care to connect the families through supported visits. The objectives of the Supervised Access Worker are to support families in developing specific strategies in dealing with family challenges providing constructive strengths based feedback to assist with successful visits. The Supervised Access Worker will support Indigenous cultural spiritual beliefs and value systems of the families, and will empower families to effectively meet their needs. To best support children and families this position will work non-standard shifts such as Tuesday to Saturday.

**REPORTS TO**: FDP Program Manager and Executive Director

**JOB RESPONSIBILITIES**:

- Work with families to support a positive and meaningful family-child relationship using traditional Indigenous knowledge and coaching tools
- Work with the family to identify challenges with attachment/bonding or other areas where family finds difficulty
- Assist the family in developing goals and effective strategies addressing identified needs
- Create educational materials and activities to be used in identifying and eliminating barriers that families with children in care face during supervised visits
- Using coaching principles to redirect focus and assist families with child behaviours and emotions
- Utilize Indigenous knowledge, including the Seven Sacred Teachings, as a positive influence for families
- Participate in (and request, when necessary) Case Management Meetings; attend Family Group Conferences; arrange consultation with any of the professionals involved with the family
- Sustain participation of families in the program by providing flexible support and establishing strong rapport.
- Engage, motivate and encourage families' accountability
- Develop effective working relationships and partnerships with co-workers, community members, and representatives bands and communities
- Produce accurate records, including: written case notes and progress reports; service hours and statistical tracking; referrals made to other services; and other types of information as required.

**CULTURAL PRACTICE**:

- Promote and support traditional cultural teachings and practice for our families, agency, and community.
- Utilize traditional Indigenous practices that focus on the mind, emotion, body and spirit; recognize family strengths and assets
- Participate in agency event planning such as: Annual Mini-Teaching Pow-wow and Family Christmas Gathering.
- Act as a positive role model for our children, youth, their families, our community and our community partners.
- Support families to advocate for themselves and their family members.
- Act as a positive advocate for good processes with, and for, families; ensure families are aware of their rights, have access to relevant information that affects them; are able to participate in relevant processes; and have a voice in the decisions that affect them.

**QUALIFICATIONS**:
**Education and Experience**

Minimum 2 year diploma in a related field

Minimum 4 years recent work experience in working in a family support position

**Skills and Attributes**

Provide teachings, knowledge of Indigenous and urban Indigenous culture, traditions, and history as a way of supporting the family's connection to their children, culture and community.

Strong knowledge of the various service providers within the areas we serve

Previous experience and knowledge of facilitating traditional family support circles

Strong knowledge of Indigenous communities.

Excellent communication skills, including strong writing skills, active listening and effective discussion leadership skills.

Current and valid Driver’s License and ability to obtain business and liability insurance coverage.

Driver’s Abstract required.

Criminal Records Check required.

**TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT**:This is a full time position

**ADDITIONAL INFORMATION**:
All workers must be aware of the potential for allegations to be brought against them by clients and therefore, must conduct themselves in a manner where behaviours/actions cannot be misinterpreted. Workers are required to take precautionary measures and to follow safety guidelines to ensure their safety. Workers must be aware of the risks when working with potentially hostile or aggressive clients and follow safety guidelines to ensure their safety.

Workers must maintain confidentiality, undergo annual successful criminal record checks, and to be sensitive to diversity among clients, co-workers and the community.

This position will be exposed to a high level of noise and distractions from children. Direct delivery may include moderate physical activity involving walking, standing, bending, and lifting children.

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

Pay: $47,000-49,000 per year

Benefits: Dental/Medical Benef