The Support Worker - Specialist Homelessness Service will work with clients who are accessing temporary supported accommodation, providing them with adequate supervision and support. The position is responsible for the provision of; appropriate care, support and advocacy, client programs and activities, and provision of support related to case management goals. The position will also ensure that the facilities accessed by the clients are safe and adequately resourced.
Duties & Responsibilities
•Develop and maintain effective relationships with clients, empowering and supporting clients while assisting in the development of their skills needed to transition to alternate accommodation
•Assist with the intake and assessment of clients
•Work in reference to Individual Case Plans and encourage client participation and engagement in care plan activities, including:
-Participate in inductions for residents
-Provide input to SHIP Needs Assessments
-Support the client to establish or sustain housing
-Provide emotional and practical support
-Teach life skills, appropriate to client needs and goals
-Provide advocacy and assistance to access housing and specialist services
-Facilitate social contact with family and friends
-Facilitate transition to mainstream services, alternate housing, and community support
-Identify client needs and make appropriate referrals in consultation with the Case Workers, Practice Lead &/or Program Manager
-Contribute to effective client household management practices
-Instil client independence with weekly chores i.e. bed making, laundry, budgeting, and an understanding of securing and maintaining a tenancy
•Ensure that safe practices are in place for employees and clients, including the monitoring of dangerous objects, alcohol, illicit drugs or potential weapons are not brought onto any part of the facility
•Assist with delivery of education and other programs and activities
•Provide any relevant data and information regarding service delivery as required and/or as directed
•Maintain necessary client and operational information, completing case notes daily, and maintenance of client information system
•Ensure secure management of all program files and compliance with applicable privacy legislation and policies
•Maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of the shelter environment
Required Qualifications and Experience
•Qualifications in Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, Behavioral Science, Social Science, Health, Mental Health Community Services or relevant field
•An extensive understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, cultures and protocols and the issues which impact upon them in contemporary society.
•Hope and Healing (Residential) training or willingness to obtain
•Demonstrated experience in facilitating and delivering training programs and presentations, in an individual or group setting e.g. programs that enhance clients’ practical living and conflict resolution skills, as well as providing opportunities for clients to experience success through encouragement of positive relationships.
•Highly developed skills in negotiation and liaison using conflict resolution, mediation and advocacy skills.
•Experience working with people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.
•Knowledge of the issues associated with homelessness, the influences and effects of the social environment and advocating with and on behalf of those who are disadvantaged.
•Ability to identify and manage own emotional responses to clients being supported e.g. self-awareness, open-mindedness on social issues and ability to practice reflection.
•Proven ability to work autonomously and display initiative, self-motivation, time management and solution focused skills
•Ability to comply with all legal, ethical, confidentiality and regulatory requirements
Required Licenses and Checks
•Ability to pass a National Police Check – no Serious/Criminal/Court Records
•Current Blue Card (Queensland's Working with Children Check)
•Current C Class Driver’s License (Qld)
•Proof of qualifications and current registration (as appropriate) are to be provided prior to commencement of employment.
•Current First Aid and CPR
Please apply by submitting your current resume and cover letter detailing how your capabilities and experience align to the requirements of the role- to hr@taihs.net.au