Relief Caseworker

Under the supervision of the House Manager, the Shelter Worker is primarily responsible for processing and administering all aspects of casework including Intake, Move In, Needs Assessment, Case Planning and Move Out. The Caseworker will provide support, security, advocacy, information, education, and referrals to Nisa Home clients while developing a relationship that nurtures client independence.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

CASEWORK MANAGEMENT

1. Intake

• Screen potential residents for intake suitability when required by House Manager
• Participate in the selection and admission of residents to appropriate program
• Review client background information, interview clients to obtain case history and prepare intake reports
• Conduct a thorough analysis of documents and application form to ensure completion

2. Move-In

• Provide pick up service for client move-in, if required
• Prepare and assign bedroom, cupboard, linens and towels to the client(s)
• Provide a Nisa Homes number for the client(s)
• Provide a welcome pack for the client(s)
• Conduct initial meeting with the client to review and sign-off house rules, liability, consent and confidentiality agreements
• Conduct house tour and introduce the client to other house guests and staff

3. Needs Assessment

• Assess client’s immediate needs within 2-3 days of client move-in
• Inform client(s) of various options and resources that are available to meet their needs
• Guide client(s) in developing and implementing a plan of action for their 3-month stay at the home
• Provide necessary support and assistance for the client to ensure the action plan is achieved

4. Move Out

• Encourage and support clients to secure sustainable housing within the community
• Assist client in accessing various community or governmental programs regarding housing, welfare, childcare, child benefits, disability, English Language training, etc.

CLIENT SUPPORT AND DEVELOPMENT

• Meet with the client(s) weekly to assess their progress, give emotional support and encouragement, help with goal setting and problem-solving supports
• Facilitate house meetings to review housekeeping issues
• Advocate for and represent the client’s needs in house meetings and with other community/governmental agencies
• Encourage clients to abide by house rules through positive reinforcement and role modelling.
• Monitor the clients’ adherence to the house rules and report all violations immediately to the House Manager.
• Assign and enforce restrictions and/or consequences for rule violations.
• Regularly conduct client bed checks
• Maintain a daily written log regarding house and client activity
• Facilitate resolution of conflicts between the client(s) in the home through positive communication and supportive listening
• Organize and conduct workshops to promote mental and physical well-being, life skills and self-care
• Monitor and ensure the safety and comfort of the client(s) and the security of the home.

REPORTING

• Summarize/organize information for shura in event that a unique case has arisen for current residents for decision making
• Provide weekly updates in staff meetings regarding client progress.
• Maintain case notes, resident records, documents, forms and statistical information
• Maintain an updated track of expenditures, dispersal of financial assistance to residents, inventory of groceries and household items, inventory of donations, etc.

OUTREACH

• Liaise with other services, agencies and professionals
• Develop positive relationships with various community partners including Police, CAS, client family
• members, masajid, neighbours and Property Management personnel.
• Maintain current knowledge of issues and resources related to abuse and violence to provide presentations and public awareness activities about services and issues of abuse
• Facilitate community networking, attend meetings and workshops as needed

AD HOC

• Handle donation pick-ups for the house
• Participate in all scheduled training sessions
• Participate in counselling and mental health meetings once a month
• Assist House Manager in ensuring housekeeping services such as laundry, house cleaning and maintaining supplies are completed

COMPETENCIES

• Communication Skills & Active Listening
• Positive Attitude
• Detail Oriented
• Professional Demeanor
• Interpersonal Relationships and Respect
• Building Trust
• Planning and Organizational Skills
• Emotional Intelligence
• Conflict Management Skills

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCES

• Must speak and write English and French proficiently
• Degree or Diploma in a related human/social service field such as Social Work and two (2) years recent related experience. Or an equivalent combination of relevant training, education and experience.
• Current First Aid/CPR Certificate required and Clear Criminal and Vulnerable Sector Police Clearance
• Be aware of personal triggers and be willing to work on personal wellness
• Awareness of stresses of position and follow an action plan for self-care
• Respect clients right to their own values, beliefs, culture and choice
• Understanding of the cycle of abuse, the misuse and abuse of power and control
• Good interpersonal skills and the ability to work with people from different cultural backgrounds
• Understand and respect the importance of confidentiality
• Knowledge of community resources, social services policies and practices, criminal and family justice systems