Social Navigator – Drop-in Program

at  Klala Lelum

We are seeking an Outreach Worker who is passionate about promoting health and wellness We are seeking an individual who is passionate about promoting health and wellness equity in the Downtown Eastside (DTES) to assist the pilot Drop-in Program at Kilala Lelum Health Centre in the role of Social Navigator (our reimagined version of Social Worker). As a pilot program, it may change to best serve the needs of members accessing Kilala Lelum. Kilala Lelum aims to provide access to decolonized primary care, Allied Health services, and Elder-led cultural care to new and existing members of the Health Centre through an outreach-based, culturally-safe, trauma-informed, member-centered, and harm reduction approach.

JOB SUMMARY:

The Social Navigator (0.8 FTE), working within an interdisciplinary care team that includes Indigenous Elders, Physicians, Nurses, Allied Health professionals, and Outreach Workers, will deliver a plan of care and provide direct care activities to members within the Drop-in Program. The Drop-in Program is designed to provide immediate and accessible support to community members, particularly those facing urgent or acute challenges. Prior to commencing work, the Social Navigator will receive training at KL to ensure a smooth transition into the role.

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS:

• Bachelor of Social Work required and/or Master of Social Work strongly preferred, plus two (2) years of recent related experience in Vancouver’s DTES providing care through a holistic mental health, substance use, and primary care lens; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Current Valid BC Driver’s License is preferred.
• Current full registration with the British Columbia College of Social Workers, or a willingness to obtain within 6 months.
• Preference will be given to candidates with Indigenous ancestry.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, drop-in environment with diverse community members.
• Experience with crisis intervention and acute care management is strongly preferred.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Demonstrated commitment to culturally-safe, trauma-informed, member-centered, harm reduction and recovery-oriented practices.
• Experience and knowledge of Indigenous peoples and Indigenous culture would be extremely beneficial. Completion of a cultural competency course or willingness to participate required.

• Care for members who are adversely affected by the social determinants of health and who experience health challenges including chronic disease, substance use, and mental illness.
• Attend weekly Social Navigation Team meetings, and monthly Allied Wellness Canoe meetings.
• Facilitate Drop-In Relational Care space twice per week (Tuesday and Thursday mornings).
• Coordinate a plan of care and support transitions between services; demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of other health disciplines and their roles in care.
• Provide immediate psycho-social support to members utilizing the Drop-in Program, with a focus on acute needs and crisis intervention.
• Establish, maintain, and enhance therapeutic relationships based on respect, cultural safety, trauma-informed practice, and harm reduction principles.
• Complete wellness checks, document relevant information, and escalate within care teams as necessary.
• Perform emergent or time-sensitive care as required, including appointment accompaniments.
• Take on member caseloads, implement/improve plans of care, and ensure appropriate follow-up.