Social Worker 1(A)-(B)-2 (Disclosure Program) (Designated)

Designation Status

This opportunity is designated to applicants that identify as Indigenous Persons: persons who identify themselves as First Nation (Status and non-Status), Métis, or Inuit

If you are a member of one of this equity group, you must self-identify during the application process, to be considered.

About Us

The Department of Community Services (DCS) is a large and diverse department that provides a broad portfolio of programs and services designed to help the most vulnerable people of Nova Scotia be independent, self-reliant, and secure. This is achieved through working collaboratively internally across all divisions of the department, and externally with a significant network of service providers, other departments, and levels of government, to achieve the desired and shared outcomes for the citizens who seek services and the department as a whole.

The Department is responsible for a broad range of social services including those under Child Youth and Family Support (CYFS), Employment Support (ESS), Income Assistance (IA), Homelessness and Supportive Housing, and Disability Support Program (DSP).

For more information on our department please visit https://novascotia.ca/coms/

About Our Opportunity

In April 2021, the new Adoption Record Act received Royal Ascent. With the new legislation comes exciting career opportunities with our newly designed Disclosure Unit.

If you are passionate about helping people learn about their history and origins, this opportunity provides you with the chance to make a profound and positive impact in the lives of parties to an adoption and former children in permanent care. You will be employed in a dynamic, creative and collaborative work environment that celebrates and embraces diversity, promotes continued professional growth and provides you with the opportunity to utilize your full range of social work skills, knowledge and experience.

Primary Accountabilities

As a Social Worker working in the Disclosure Unit, you are responsible for the disclosure of information to parties to an adoption and to former children in permanent care with the Department of Community Services. Through the collection of social and medical history, you will create reports and provide support to applicants who are searching for information or requesting reunions with birth families. You will also assist people affected by adoption who wish to limit access to their personal information. You will provide supports and services in a respectful, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive manner.

You will intervene under the Children and Family Services Act, the Adoption Information Act and the Adoptions Records Act and in accordance with the legislation and policies of the program, to make a lasting difference in applicants lives. You exercise judgment and make decisions regarding information disclosure and supports and reunions in consultation with your supervisor and colleagues.

Qualifications and Experience

You have completed your Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) or Master of Social Work (MSW); or are a Registered Social Worker (RSW) who is currently classified and practicing as a social worker in the field of child welfare. You must be eligible for registration with the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers.

Your understanding of child development, family functioning, child abuse and neglect have prepared you to speak up for your clients and empower change. You are compassionate, reliant, and resourceful. You are well versed in effective intervention strategies when supporting individuals and families. You are a problem solver who applies their studies and experience in creative ways to best support your clients. Knowledge of the Children and Family Service Act, the Adoption Information Act and disclosure of sensitive information is a definite asset.

You demonstrate key qualities such as problem solving, decision making, and are a strong team player who is keen to practice social work within a government system.

We will assess the above qualifications and competencies using one or more of the following tools: written examination, standardized tests, oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks.

Benefits

Based on the employment status and Union agreement, the Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as Health, Dental, Life Insurance, Pension, General Illness (Short and Long Term), Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs. Click here to learn more about our various benefits offerings and eligibility criteria.

Working Conditions

Some of your work involves meeting with clients in their homes or communities. As this is a Provincial program, this necessitates considerable driving time, sometimes in adverse weather conditions. While present in the office, your time is spent a comfortable office environment with flexible working options available.

Your personal resiliency is essential to meet the physical and emotional demands of this position. You will be immersed in high stress and crisis situations. You must be able to work under pressure and be personally and professionally committed to working with culturally diverse individuals in a respectful, inclusive, and racism-free manner.

Additional Information

We invest in your career development and progression. You may be eligible for reimbursement of your registration fees to the NS College of Social Workers.

You must have a valid drivers license and the ability to travel to various work site locations. Travel expenses will be covered in accordance with the collective agreement, policies, and procedures.

In accordance with the COVID-19 Mandatory Vaccination Protocol in High-Risk Settings full vaccination is a condition of employment for this opportunity.

What We Offer

• Career Possibilities; you will have access to multiple career paths, career guidance, and ongoing training for every stage of your career.
• Rewarding and versatile work; daily, you will get to see the impact you have in and around your community.
• Engaging workplace; you are respected, supported, and valued. We have forward-thinking policies and strategies and incorporate your feedback to enhance our services.
• Flexible working schedules; as you work with your clients, we will work with you to support flexible working options, ensuring that you have the tools, resources, and time to bring out the best in you.