Housing Caseworker

Who We Are

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

POSITION PURPOSE SUMMARY: The Caseworker provides direct casework to assist clients within The Salvation Army – Crossroads Residential Services policies and programs. The Caseworker provides housing support for clients staying at the emergency shelter and works in partnership with the other support services provided at Crossroads. The Caseworker is part of the Case Management Team for Crossroads Residential Services.

Accountabilities

• Casework Accountabilities & Client Support Under the direction of the Residential Services Manager or designate, works with all the support staff at the shelter to build relationships that will support the clients and the program Orientates clients with the house rules and regulations Casework duties, including analysis of data, formulation of treatment services and supports (in consistency with The Salvation Army – Crossroads Residential Services policies), identifying barriers and supporting clients to achieve safe, realistic, and reasonable goals, provision of ongoing support and community referrals, interpersonal conflict resolution, advocacy services, among others Builds and maintains a therapeutic environment with clients. Confront in a therapeutic manner, if necessary, to de-escalate tensions and resolve conflict. Document observances of the clients along with actions taken by the Caseworker Ensures the psychological needs of residents are being met through programming, individual counselling, etc. Attends and facilitates case conferences with the Case Management Team May attend planning meetings for clients and other support workers Provides statistical and evaluative information to management and funders Supports the efforts made to meet the client’s spiritual needs and cultural practice by working with the Spiritual Care team Maintains an active interest in all phases of the residential program and suggests improvements to the same Case Management Provides responsible case management services for all shelter guests Meets and interviews clients to complete intakes, develop case plans and establish goals, monitor progress, and provide ongoing support Conducts individual counselling sessions, keeping records as to the nature of each session. Make self-available to other clients as required Records and maintains case plan documentation. All documentation should provide objective information, including behaviour, attitude, and concerns regarding all activities, events, and interactions. Conducts regular wellness checks, building appropriate relationships with clients and securing their holistic care Monitors the environment and clients to ensure safety and security Responds to day-to-day “urgent” needs of clients Communication & Reporting Maintains accurate, comprehensive, legible, and current client file records Maintains confidentiality and keeps accurate statistical records (SAMIS) Presents to the Residential Services Manager or designate, when required, a written or oral report on the conduct recovery plan and progress of each assigned client Promptly reports incident reports in accordance with policy Contacts other social service agencies on behalf of the client and based on their case plan goals, including liaison with other non-profit organizations Identifies and reports to the property management company maintenance needs and safety concerns Other Duties Practices The Salvation Army professional code of ethics and communicates and cooperates with all co-workers, partners, and clients in a respectful, open, and honest manner, maintaining confidentiality at all times Required to work in cooperation with other staff members in job-related areas and treat all clients, staff, volunteers, and members of the public with respect, dignity, and confidentiality. Dress in a manner that is professional and presentable with respect to the employment position Adhere to standards consistent with the values and philosophy of Crossroads Residential Services and The Salvation Army Participates fully and constructively in staff meetings and service training Engages in formal evaluation sessions with the direct supervisor after the probation period and annually thereafter Reads and follows the Policy & Procedures Manual and the Employee Handbook Represents the organization in a professional manner Responsible to work safely and report all unsafe or unhealthy working conditions to the Health and Safety Committee. Works in compliance with OH&S Act and Regulations and abide by The Salvation Army’s health and safety policies and procedures. Participates in regular supervision and performance reviews/evaluations as required. Other work-related duties as assigned by the Residential Services Manager or designate
• Critical
• Relationship
• Management
• Governance
• Boards and
• Councils:
• None
• Internal: Case Management team, shelter guests, staff, Money management team.

External

• Community based organizations, property management companies, social housing agencies, Health support services, income assistance
• MANAGERIAL/Technical
• Leadership
• Responsibility:
• Reports directly to: Residential Services Manager or Designate. No direct reports.
• Financial
• AND
• Materials
• MANAGEMENT: Uses or maintains organization assets in accordance with established guidelines. Does not process any financial transactions with no budget responsibilities.
• WORKING
• CONDITIONS: The incumbent’s work environment is typically in an office or work site within residential settings.
• The incumbent will work under the following disagreeable conditions: Exposure to dirt, bodily fluids, bodily waste Exposure to drugs and alcohol Noise Dealing with angry and abusive people Verbal abuse Odors The incumbent may be exposed to the risk of moderate injury or illness due to: Physical attacks by others (i.e., being attacked by a client/resident) Exposure to infectious diseases Exposure to toxic chemicals Sharp Objects (i.e., needle sticks) Other dangerous situations For this position <25% travel required. The above responsibilities must be performed in keeping with The Salvation Army’s Mission, Vision and Values, in a professional manner, upholding our code of conduct.
• Education and
• Experience
• Qualifications:
• Education,
• Qualifications and
• Certifications: Completion of a formal post-secondary/college program of two academic years in Social Services, Human Services, or any other relevant fields Certification in Mental Health & Addictions would be an asset A different combination of education and experience might be considered First Aid/CPR certificate E-learning (Abuse Prevention & WHIMIS) – to be completed before the first shift Criminal Record Check, including Vulnerable Sector Experience and Skilled Knowledge Requirements A minimum of two years of prior related experience, including frontline casework experience in a social service environment Experience on how to work with people from diverse backgrounds and enjoy assisting others to solve problems Have a solid understanding of issues facing persons experiencing a housing crisis, various social issues pertaining to homelessness and its impact on the families served Have knowledge and a solid understanding of the Mental Health and Addiction supports systems available to individuals in the region Training in crisis intervention, conflict resolution and mediation skills is an asset Skills and Capabilities Strong sense of integrity and confidentiality with professional ethics and a balanced sense of fairness and flexibility Strong understanding of professional boundaries when working with a vulnerable population Patience and ability to deescalate situations Ability to coach and provide constructive feedback Ability to problem solve and make independent decisions within an established framework while understanding the impact decisions will have on programming as well as programs around them Ability and willingness to respect, promote, and support the mission, vision, and values of TSA and develop an understanding of the purpose of the Salvation Army in Canada and its implication as related to position responsibilities Attention to detail, problem-solving and analytical skills Strong interpersonal, motivational, leadership, and organizational skills Attentive listening skills for the purpose of coaching and conflict resolution. Demonstrates effective interpersonal and communication skills Ability to develop and maintain a team environment; work cooperatively and effectively with others to set goals, resolve problems, and make decisions that enhance organizational effectiveness Demonstrated ability to take initiative, be reliable and operate in an environment of accountability Proficient in Microsoft 365 computer programs Proficient in note taking and keeping files Understands the dynamics of resident’s behaviour with the ability to assess their needs and risks Ability to demonstrate understanding of and empathy toward cultural differences. Must be sensitive to and respectful of cultural and lifestyle diversity Maintain and promote a positive image of The Salvation Army by providing a high calibre of services and dealing with others in a courteous and professional manner This is a regular full time position.