Community Liaison Worker – Ottawa-Carleton Detention Centre (OCDC)

at  The Elizabeth Fry Society of Ottawa

WELCOME!

E Fry Ottawa is committed to employment equity, actively seeks diversity in the workplace, and welcomes and encourages applications from members of equity-seeking groups including women, transgender, non-binary, and LGBTQ+ individuals, First Nations, Métis and Inuit individuals, persons with disabilities, and members of racialized and marginalized groups.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Experience and/or education equivalent to a post-secondary degree in social work, criminal justice, or a related field.
• Minimum of one (1) year of experience engaging and collaborating with vulnerable populations, specifically, women and gender-diverse people who are involved in the criminal justice system.
• Experience using a range of assessment and case management tools or willingness to be trained to use these tools.
• Experience working with marginalized communities who face multiple barriers such as poverty, discrimination, criminalization, substance dependence, and mental health challenges
• Have an updated clear Criminal Record Check working with a vulnerable population.
• Valid First Aid/CPR, Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (NVCI), and ASIST certification are considered an asset.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, CAPACITY, AND COMMITMENT

• A solid understanding and knowledge of the criminal justice system.
• A solid understanding of social factors that contribute to the criminalization of marginalized populations.
• An understanding of mental health and substance dependence issues, including knowledge of harm reduction strategies.
• Ability to cope with challenging situations and clients where there is the potential for confrontation, aggression, and/or exposure to violence.
• Strong interpersonal skills and crisis management skills which include resolution/de-escalation experience.
• Knowledge of community service organizations to assist clients with rehabilitation and reintegration, and ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong motivational interviewing skills to support the creation of a release plan.
• Excellent personal and professional boundaries and sound self-care practices.
• High degree of resourcefulness, flexibility, and adaptability.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in both English and French.
• Demonstrated organizational, leadership, and time management skills including the ability to work independently and as part of a team

ONGOING SUPPORTS/RESPONSIBILITIES

• Attend and represent the Elizabeth Fry Society at weekly FIRM meetings and provide case management input to the correctional staff at OCDC.
• Keep up-to-date and accurate records (including logs, records, and statistical data) in accordance with the organization’s mandate and the requirements of the detention centre.
• Assist clients in connecting with community resources, including legal professionals, friends, and family while ensuring compliance with court orders.
• Maintain effective liaison with other agencies, professionals, and the community to contribute to the success of the client’s reintegration and recovery goals.

OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Collaborate with other community agencies to share information, problem solve, identify emerging issues and trends, and coordinate services.
• Complete ongoing reporting to meet the requirements of the funder (Ministry of the Solicitor General) and E Fry Ottawa.
• Participate in case management meetings and other meetings as required.
• Complete other duties that may be assigned by the Manager, Community Programs and Services.
• Promote and deliver on the mission, vision, and values of the organization.