Housing Support Worker - Nanaimo

at  Pacifica Housing

POSITION TITLE: HOUSING SUPPORT WORKER

Reports to: Manager of Supportive Housing
Compensation: $26.26-$28.52 per hour
Union: BCGEU
Closing Date: September 27, 2024 at 4pm

REQUIREMENTS

Note: An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered

EDUCATION:

• Training and/or education in a related human/social service field is an asset
• Conflict resolution/crisis prevention training and experience is an asset

EXPERIENCE:

• Recent and related experience preferably in the non-profit housing sector or in a related social service field
• Demonstrated experience working with populations impacted by substance use and mental health challenges, homelessness, and/or other barriers to stable housing

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of the psychosocial rehabilitation model
• Demonstrated ability to manage and balance role responsibilities and interpersonal dynamics in a fast paced, high pressure environment
• Working knowledge of harm reduction and Housing First theory and practice
• Proficient in MS Office programs including Word, Outlook and Excel

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Provides individualized, person-centred support to tenants, including:

• preparing, documenting, implementing, monitoring and evaluating personalized support plans with each tenant;
• assisting with case management by identifying potential problems and reporting any difficulties;
• providing input to counsellors and other professionals with regard to the development of appropriate program plans;
• monitoring client mental health and substance use and determining when to provide additional support;
• recognizing, analyzing and responding to potential emergency situations;
• encouraging and facilitating tenant participation in decision-making regarding housing and support policies and practices;
• providing life skills training such as meal preparation, housekeeping, personal care and personal self-management skills;
• assisting tenants in navigation of Ministry services;
• assisting tenants with financial management including co-ordinating with the Public Trustee, budgeting and ensuring rent and damage deposits are made;
• contributing to the evaluation of tenants’ progress and preparing related reports;
• supervising and supporting tenant participation in the community volunteer program;
• liaising and actively planning with community resources including Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) teams, mental health and health care practitioners, police and emergency services;
• coordinating referrals to essential services and programs for tenants;
• providing support for a wide variety of on-site and off-site programming including life skills and recreational activities; attends appointments with tenants such as medical, psychiatric, counseling etc. (building specific);
• providing support to tenants experiencing health issues including end of life support;
• advocating for tenants who are experiencing oppression, stigmatization and/or discrimination within the community;
• providing transition support for tenants moving in or out of supportive housing.

1. Performs a variety of property management related functions, including:

• coordinating maintenance related requests with the Property Management team;
• providing direct assistance to tenants preparing for pest control (i.e bed bugs) or maintenance/repair activities;
• assisting with minor repairs and maintenance (such as light bulb changes), as required.

1. Performs administrative responsibilities, including:

• maintaining reports such as statistics, logbooks, tenant daily activity records;
• preparing Incident Reports for staff follow-up and for the Health and Safety Committee;
• assisting the Manager with the development of protocols, policies, procedures and/or proposals;
• assisting in fundraising, public relations campaigns, workshops and special events.

1. Other related duties, including:

• maintaining regular contact with, and providing back-up for team members and other staff as required;
• participating in community meetings including coordinating individual case conferences.

ADDITIONAL CRITERIA FOR ROLE:

• First Aid Certification is required.
• Naloxone administration training is required.
  As Pacifica Housing works with vulnerable populations, We require all staff to successfully clear a Vulnerable Sectors Criminal Record Check run by the Ministry of Justice and to be double vaccinated for COVID 19. Any offer of employment is contingent on the applicant providing proof of criminal record check and vaccination status prior to commencing employment.
  Please note: While this position is posted externally concurrently, members within the collective bargaining unit will receive first consideration in the appointment.

Housing Support Workers function as part of a team to provide comprehensive on-going support services to the tenants in Pacifica’s Supportive Housing programs. Housing Support Workers are accountable for delivering programs and services to tenants to support their success as residents of Pacifica Housing, including:

• Delivering person-centered support services and programs following a “housing first” philosophy to tenants as part of a dedicated team;
• Following prescribed policies and procedures associated with Property Management;
• Supporting tenants through a PSR approach;
• Advocating on behalf of tenants with community agencies;
• Attending to overdoses and administering naloxone