Position summary

The Caseworker – Follow-up will work collaboratively with guests and residents upon departure from programs to ensure a smooth transition into independent and stable living and continuity of care. This position requires home visits, accompaniment to appointments and advocacy with a variety of external agencies. The position encompasses the primary functions of case management, housing support, advocacy, Individual Support Planning (I.S.P.) and development, crisis management, as well as community integration. We are committed to serving people who face barriers to housing security and the Follow-up Caseworker will focus on reducing these barriers.

RESPONSIBILITES

• Case management with all follow-up clients, implementing and revising support plans as necessary;
• Attend in-person visits with follow-up clients on a regular basis;
• Address issues with hoarding, pest management, and housekeeping;
• Collaboration with other case workers and departments;
• Liaise with community partners and engage with sector networks to access information and resources to support the program;
• Maintain positive relationships with other service providers;  
• Maintain and model appropriate personal boundaries with residents;  
• Crisis prevention, mediation, de-escalation and/or coordination of services, including supportive debriefing, and assistance in the development of a restorative plan;
• Understand and use correct reporting procedures for serious or unusual incidents, including but not limited to injury, illness, or incidents of aggression;
• Oversee and assist with the planning and implementation of program enhancements;
• Provide guidance and oversight of placement student activities;
• Maintain knowledge of external regulatory bodies governing the organization;
• Identify and pursue professional development opportunities;
• Keep accurate records and documentation;
• Maintain current credentials as required for employment;
• Ensure Health and safety protocols and the use of personal protective equipment are maintained;
• Advocate for the guest/tenants and assist them in overcoming systemic barriers that may preclude them obtaining support;
• Compile caseload statistics and prepare program and resident guest reports;
• Other duties as assigned

Education

• Completion of Bachelor Social Work or degree in similar discipline or equivalent work experience in a related field - Lived experience will be considered an asset;
• Completion of the following certificates considered an asset:  First Aid, CPR, Overdose response and Naloxone administration, Non-violent crisis intervention, Anti racism and anti-oppressive practice, Food handlers’ certificate, SMIS certificate, Fire Warden training, Toronto Respite Standards;

EXPERIENCE

• Minimum 2 years’ experience working in a similar setting e.g. shelter, respite; supportive housing
• Experience facilitating and building partnerships with external agencies;
• Working knowledge of the City of Toronto 24-Hour Respite Site Standards and Toronto Shelter Standards (TSS) an asset;
• Experience working with individuals in a Harm Reduction setting;
• Demonstrated reliability and availability to attend scheduled shifts;

SKILLS

• Understanding of anti-oppressive practice;
• Excellent oral, written and interpersonal communication skills
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams)
• Strong understanding of a harm reduction philosophy;
• Demonstrated de-escalation techniques and ability to remain effective in stressful situations.
• Demonstrated conflict resolution skills and the ability to remain professional.

SCHEDULE
Days: Tuesday to Saturday 
Shift: 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM