Support Workers: Job Description

Support Workers work in one of our housing programs, helping clients keep their housing by supporting them to address their issues with mental illness, substance use, physical health and life skills. The most important task is building a relationship with clients and collaborating with them to achieve their goals. The Support Worker works collaboratively with other direct service staff, family and external service providers, advocating for access and rights as needed.

Education and Experience:

  • A Diploma in community social services; or education in mental health, addictions, concurrent disorders / co-occurring disorders and social work.
  • One year of recent, related work experience with an emphasis on mental health, addictions, homelessness and/or social services.
  • Or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience. We look at the whole person
  • Current First Aid and CPR certification, and a Class 5 driver’s license

Key Abilities

  • Collaborate – establish collaborative relationships with clients, working to increase their strengths
  • Respond – safely resolve crisis situations and respond nonjudgmentally to problematic behaviour
  • Advocate – help develop and implement service plans, and be a strong advocate for the client
  • Understand – demonstrate understanding of oppression and marginalization of the homeless
  • Teamwork – make positive contributions to the team, support and back up your co-workers at all times

Knowledge

  • Knowledge of concurrent / co-occurring disorders including: mental health diagnosis, treatment and resources; and addictions resources, stages of change
  • Knowledge of harm reduction concepts
  • Knowledge of treatment and supports for persons with complex social and health needs

A Frontline Worker writing on their experiences:

“It’s hard. Have no illusions, working here will challenge your abilities, beliefs, tolerances, biases, sleep patterns and social life, not to mention witnessing daily the struggles, trauma, and injustices the people we serve must face.

It is not a job for everyone. But for those of us who do work here… it is an opportunity to make a difference. To provide the most basic of needs for someone – food, shelter, clothing – and to assist with attending to medical, financial and housing issues. To creatively solve problems otherwise deemed too complex or impossible. To witness the resiliency and self-determination of the human spirit on a daily basis. To work beside peers who share similar values as yourself.”

Publication Date: 
2014