LOWER MAINLAND PURPOSE SOCIETY

Position: Harm Reduction Worker

Location:40 Begbie Street, New Westminster, B.C.

The Lower Mainland Purpose Society has established the Health Contact Centre which is the first safe consumption site in New Westminster. In addition to providing a site where substances can be used safely, the Centre will offer other programs to enhance the psychosocial outcomes of program participants.

Hours: 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., 3:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Job Types: Part-time, Permanent & Casual, On-call

Salary: $29.00 per hour

Start date: September 2024

Job Description:

The primary duty of the Harm Reduction Worker is to ensure that clients consume substances in a safe way and offer assistance if needed. Duties include:

• Responsible for on-site safety and adherence to program policies and procedures
• Greeting clients coming to the Health Contact Centre
• Complete required paperwork
• Observe clients consume substances safely
• Offer assistance as required
• Observe clients after substance use to ensure wellness
• Clean and sanitize surfaces on a regular basis
• Facilitate drug testing
• Distribute harm reduction supplies
• Provide naloxone kits and naloxone training
• Provide information on the Lifeguard application and install if necessary
• Complete needle sweeps of the surrounding area as required
• Provide referral to other Purpose programs that can provide necessary services
• Work cooperatively with team members to ensure client safety in every way

Qualifications:

• The equivalent of a high school diploma and evidence of additional training taken
• At least two years experience providing front line, harm reduction services with an emphasis on mental health, addictions, homelessness and/or social services, or an equivalent combination experience and lived experience
• Advanced overdose recognition and response training
• Knowledge of common drugs and their effects
• Current First Aid and CPR certification
• Ability to maintain a non-judgmental and non-stigmatizing approach is required
• Willingness to participate in on-going on the job and other outside courses
• Ability and willingness to work with a client-centered approach
• Good verbal communication skills

Other:

• Must be physically and mentally able to be on your feet for long periods, take on physical tasks and work in a fast paced environment
• Must have a high degree of comfort working with challenging individuals and people with concurrent mental illness and substance use disorders

Please submit your resume and cover letter to the attention of: Travis Walker. Job will be posted until it is filled.