Client support worker

Who We Are

For more than 130 years, The Salvation Army has served people in need in communities across Canada and Bermuda. Building on our roots as a world-wide Christian church, each year we help more than 2 million people, providing necessities such as food, clothing and shelter. In addition, we support people experiencing unemployment, addiction and family challenges. We continually adapt and innovate to meet emerging needs and live out our mission, vision and values of hope, service, dignity and stewardship. As a faith- and values-based organization, we hire and serve people of all backgrounds and walks of life - there is a place for everyone to belong here.

Mission Statement

The Salvation Army exists to share the love of Jesus Christ, meet human needs and be a transforming influence in the communities of our world.

Job Description:

Execution of Position

The worker will build a rapport with shelter clients through relationship building. During this process the Client Support Worker will identify and provide supports for each client wherever resources are available. The Client Support Worker will build rapport and a positive trusting relationship with clients and promote an environment based on dignity and respect.

Illustrative Examples of Work/Expectations

- Encourage clients in acquiring appropriate social skills (inter-personal, social and community skills) by using problem solving, conflict resolution and mediation techniques. Interact with clients as much as possible, to facilitate relationship building – i.e. playing cards, pool, etc.;
- Regularly check-in with clients to identify their progress and document in client case notes;
- Encourage and promote acceptable standards in hygiene, dress and other personal needs;
- Address needs and concerns of all clients (shelter and 3rd floor);
- Collaborate with the Liaison Worker, Community Service Worker, and Supportive Housing Worker in assisting clients ;
- In consultation with the Liaison Worker, conduct and complete resident assessments and discharges;
- Complete documentation, both written and electronic, in a clear and concise manner, and within required time lines (such as referrals for service, detailed shift logs, case notes, HIFIS entries, etc.);
- Provide oncoming shift with pertinent information during shift change discussions;
- Monitor medication for all clients (shelter and 3rd floor);
- Maintain awareness of community resources to assist clients in identifying and accessing services and programs;
- In consultation with the Shelter Manager, refer clients to appropriate community resources in order meet client needs and foster independence (e.g. referrals to AA meetings, Adult Central Intake, etc.);
- Assist clients in securing items such as toiletries, clothing, shoes, whenever available and record on appropriate forms;
- Assist clients in acquiring IDs, MCP, Birth Certificate etc.;
- May attend, when necessary, case consultations as well as attend private appointments;
- Clean client rooms upon discharge from the shelter (floors, drawers, closets and under bed), sanitize mattress, do inventory of room, do house laundry, prepare room for next resident. Complete shelter room cleaning list, attach to discharge form and submit to the Executive Director;
- Ensure that laundry detergent and bounce sheets refilled;
- Conduct after-hour room checks and note them in log book;
- Supervise and interact with former clients on formers’ day;
- Unlock dining area and supervise meal times as per the posted hours;
- Keep administrative area clean and tidy each night and on weekends;
- Ensure snow is cleared from all emergency exits and main entrances in the absence of the Property Maintenance Worker;
- Other duties as assigned by management.

Desirable Experience and Training

- Completion of a university degree focusing in the area of psychology, special education, social work, or a related field.

- Experience in working with a marginalized population in an empowering community- oriented environment; work experience in a residential program preferred.

- Excellent assessment skills.

- Group facilitation skills.

- Ability to advocate on behalf of clients.

- Working knowledge of homelessness and community partners.

- Effective communication and computer skills.
- Good interpersonal skills, positive attitude and ability to work in a team setting is essential.
- Adaptability to change and frequent interruptions.
- Ability to provide and accept work direction.
- Ability to understand and maintain client/worker boundaries.
- Ability to work independently.
- Commitment to lifelong learning.
- Must provide a record of a recent Criminal History Check.
- Must have valid CPR/First Aid certificate.
- Non-Violent Crisis Training an asset.

Compensation:
The target hiring range for this position is $24.86 to $24.86 with a maximum of $24.86.
Placement in the salary range will be based on factors such as market conditions, internal equity, and candidate experience, skills, and qualifications relevant to the role.

The Salvation Army will provide reasonable accommodation upon request. Please email [email protected] if you have a need for any accommodation and we will be pleased to discuss this with you.