Hospice Wellington is hiring an Advocate Resource Counsellor. This role has been created as a result of research that Hospice Wellington coordinated for the Rural Wellington area.  Gaps have been identified in the support offered to palliative clients and their families in our rural communities. This position will report to the Executive Director of Hospice Wellington.

To further this work, the Advocate Resource Counsellor (ARC) will provide 1:1 supportive counselling and facilitate support groups for clients experiencing a life-limiting illness, their caregivers and those experiencing bereavement. The ideal candidate will have a passion for working with people, an ability to support system navigation and a readiness to advocate for clients and families. Collaboration with community partners will be key in providing clear networks for clients to access support that currently exists in rural wellington.

As an advocate and resource person, the successful candidate will also be tasked with identifying additional areas of need to create a program that is integrated, accountable and sustainable beyond the three-year contract.

Skills

Advocacy and Resource

• Supports a client centred approach to care that integrates evidence-informed practice
• Understands the trajectory of palliative care, including anticipatory grief, spiritual care and bereavement support
• Experience with Client Intake and Case Management
• Demonstrates an open-minded attitude that recognizes the dignity and value of each person
• Builds relationships with programs and services in the community and makes referrals to community partners
• Offers information, education, and resources, such as Advance Care Planning and Legacy Planning to clients, families, and the surrounding community
• Other duties as assigned

Counselling

• Supports palliative and bereavement referrals for clients in the community
• Enables clients and families to explore a client centred approach to care by listening actively, assessing needs, identifying potential issues, and working collaboratively with other team members, community partners and hospice volunteers
• Conducts in-home, phone and virtual visits
• Takes initiative with program planning and community partnerships
• Leverages the support and services of faith communities
• Liaises with therapeutic and complimentary resource providers
• Understands how to engage Hospice Wellington’s volunteers
• Maintains excellent records for accountability and collaborates with Hospice Wellington’s team members to support an inter-disciplinary approach to care
• Practices self-care and demonstrates excellent ethical standards

Preferred qualifications:

• Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) or related degree
• Skilled at group work, coaching, counselling, and community building
• Understands the rural context firsthand, lives rurally or within close proximity to rural Wellington
• Excellent listening, assessment, critical thinking, and problem- solving skills
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to embody the mission, vision, and values of Hospice Wellington.
• Minimum of 3 years practice preferred in dedicated palliative and/or bereavement care.
• Driver’s licence and reliable vehicle - travel will be an extensive piece of this rural job

Start Date: To Be Negotiated

Please express interest for this position with cover letter and resume by April 9^th, 2021 

Hospice Wellington is an equal opportunity employer. Accommodations are available for all parts of the recruitment process. Applicants are requested to make their accommodation needs known in advance.

We thank all applicants for their interest; only those who are selected for an interview will be contacted.

Upon hire, a current Level 3 - Vulnerable Sector Police Check will be required.