Domestic Violence Social Worker

**Relief Residential Support Worker (Domestic Violence)**

**Full Job Description**

Who We Are

Women’s Crisis Services of Waterloo Region (WCSWR*) provides emergency shelter to women and children fleeing abusive relationships. We operate two shelters: Anselma House in Kitchener and Haven House in Cambridge. Our facilities operate on a 24/7 basis, **and we pride ourselves in being more than shelter**. We also offer a robust region-wide outreach support program which supports families who are experiencing or have experienced domestic violence. We believe that everyone deserves to live a life free from abuse.

*WCSWR supports women, transgender and gender-diverse individuals

Mission Statement

Women’s Crisis Services of Waterloo Region supports individuals, families and communities to keep women and children safe today and prevent domestic violence from happening tomorrow.

Position Purpose Summary

The role of Residential Support Worker offers the opportunity for very meaningful work

The successful applicant will provide support and assistance to women and children, maintaining a safe and welcoming space for those in crisis situations. As a Residential Support Worker you will be part of a team that works together to make a tangible difference in the lives of our residents.

**Job Description**:
**Position**: Relief Residential Support Workers

**Location**: Kitchener (Anselma House) and Cambridge (Haven House)

**Status**: Casual (Day, evening, overnight and weekend shifts)

**Hourly Wage**: $26.06 per hour as outlined in the UNIFOR Local 302 Collective Agreement

Schedule:
The Relief Residential Support Worker must be available for a minimum of (3) full shifts per week. Of these (3) full shifts, (2) shifts must be overnight shifts, with (1) of those shifts being between Monday through Friday and (1) shift on Saturday or Sunday and (1) day shift. Relief employees must submit availability to work at least 9 of the paid holidays per calendar year.

Accountabilities
- supporting women and children to move beyond violence by providing crisis line support, safety planning, ongoing assessment, emotional support through one to one and group activities
- providing community referrals/information, discharge planning and advocacy
- support women to adapt to communal living and facilitate their transition to independence
- the ideal Relief Residential Support Worker would have a flexible schedule, available evenings and weekends.

Education, Experience, and Qualifications
- BSW, MSW, SSW or psychology degree from a recognized College or University
- Experience in a 24/7 residential support operation
- Experience in the VAW Sector an asset
- Flexibility and priority setting required to de-escalate crisis situations and to manage the multiple demand of the role.
- Knowledge of the effects of all types of abuse on both women and children.
- Have a feminist philosophy.
- Understanding of an anti-racist and anti-oppressive framework.
- Demonstrated sound judgment and the ability to be decisive in crisis situations.
- Strong organizational and time management skills along with the ability to multi-task.
- Current and informed knowledge of the needs of diverse groups of women and children, such as ability, sexual orientation, gender identity, poverty, survivors of trauma, mental health and addiction issues.
- Knowledge of conflict resolution practices and negotiation techniques, as well as the ability to facilitate meetings, direct situations and implement rules and guidelines.
- Current knowledge of basic criminal and family law, _The Child and Family Services Act_ and related legal issues and resources.
- Excellent interpersonal skills, verbal and written communication skills.
- Proficient in the use of computer software.
- Valid driver’s license, valid and sufficient insurance coverage and access to a reliable vehicle.

Additional Assets
- Experience in providing crisis intervention, trauma informed, harm reduction support and advocacy, risk and ongoing assessments.
- Knowledge of and skills in accessing and utilizing appropriate community resources.
- Registered Social Worker or Registered Social Service Worker is an asset
- Valid First Aid/CPR-C Certificate and Naloxone training, will be provided if required.
- Ability to speak in two or more languages.
- Experience working with interpreters
- Ability to commute/relocate: Kitchener/Cambridge, ON: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)

General Employment Eligibility Requirements
- Current Vulnerable Sector Police Record Check

About our Culture
- A full team of staff that are passionate about the cause and about helping others (strong values alignment)
- A culture of encouragement and celebration
- Leaders that are committed to continuous improvement and listen to and act on feedback
- A supportive working environment committed to continuous learning and growth
- Internal programs committed to staff wellness, engagement and development