Caseworker, Income & Social Supports

Regional Municipality of Peel•Mississauga, ON

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

Income and Social Supports is the single point of access for a range of Human Services programs provided by Peel Region, and community-based agencies to help individuals or families cope with life challenges or events. Our mandate is to help lift Peel residents out of poverty by supporting them to take steps towards employment, greater independence, and an improved quality of life. In this role, you will provide access to subsidy programs and Human Services for Peel residents through an integrated approach to service access from a client-centred perspective.

Requirements

Graduation from a post-secondary school with a degree/diploma in the human services field i.e. psychology, sociology, social services and one year experience as a Caseworker.
Knowledge of all applicable policies/legislations/procedures/acts as required including but not limited to the Ontario Works Act, the Ontario Disability Support Program Act, MFIPPA and the ability to explain the same.
Specific knowledge of community resources, social programs, relevant government legislation and services available to assist clients with employment, personal and financial opportunities, supports and emergencies.
Demonstrated creativity in case management is required to document clients, assess their needs, complete reference checks, assess financial eligibility, make referrals, review documents, use a follow-up system, etc. considering the client’s unique circumstances. Employment case management skills are also a requirement.
Mathematical skills to compute and monitor entitlements according to eligibility criteria and prepare statistical reports.
A valid class G driver’s license and access to a vehicle. May be required to provide an acceptable driver abstract and successfully pass a Regional safe driving course.
Knowledge and sensitivity towards the cultural diversity and accessibility needs of applicants/clients and co-workers.
Knowledge and sensitivity of mental health/addiction issues, victims of violence and abuse.
Knowledge of multiple computer programs including but not limited to SAMS, SALI, Microsoft Office, intranet, CBS and use of the internet.
A clear Vulnerable Sector Check.
Successful candidates will be required to provide a Vulnerable Sector Police Reference Check prior to hire. The cost for this reference is the candidates responsibility
Communication skills: verbal, to provide counseling to clients and interact with various agencies, etc.; and written, to respond to inquiries, prepare reports and documents, etc. Ability to provide information and direction in a supportive and respectful way.
Excellent time management and organizational skills to prepare case plans, including but not limited to, making arrangements for emergency needs. Ability to prioritize and work within time constraints and deadlines.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients, staff, community agencies, politicians and the general public by possessing and maintaining excellent interpersonal skills.
Ability to adapt to technology changes (software/computer programs).
Ability to work independently.
Working knowledge of the various systems of technology and ability to work on them efficiently and effectively on a daily basis.
Demonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion through continuous development, modeling inclusive behaviors, and proactively managing bias.

Nice To Haves

Preference will be given to qualified candidates who are currently in the bargaining unit.

Responsibilities

Documents and completes the application interview for the purpose of determining eligibility for Ontario Works Assistance. This will include verifying documentation, client contact, and assessment of employability, emergencies and appropriate referrals for applicants who may/may not be in receipt of social assistance.
Assesses employment, financial, and social needs including health, housing and childcare. For non-English speaking clients, documentation will be completed through the use of a cultural interpreter.
Request and review third party reference checks in order to verify assets, income and living arrangements and assess eligibility.
Responsible for ensuring accountability, accessibility and responsiveness in an effective and efficient manner.
Provides initial crisis intervention, makes referrals and works in partnership with community resources for long term support and works one on one with clients during stabilization period.
Works one on one with clients providing ongoing supports to assist in daily living as well as life skills.
Resolves conflict situations including client disputes and complaints. Listens, mediates, negotiates and provides support and guidance to reach mutually agreed upon service plan.
Completes an assessment for each applicant, containing a description of the negotiated case plan on the appropriate data bases.
Provides emergency support response services as required.
Compiles a comprehensive summary of employment information in order to determine an appropriate action plan.
Assesses the employment and financial eligibility in each case and authorizes monthly entitlements as eligibility is established.
Makes referrals to and recommends appropriate employment programs, social service agencies, Family Support Workers, legal services, and other community agencies to assist the clients in meeting their socioeconomic and personal care needs.
Documents reasons for ineligibility, advises in writing and makes referrals to other resources or services within the community, to help meet the client’s needs.
Completes financial reviews and follow-up as prescribed by the Ontario Works Act.
Maintains a follow-up system for ongoing cases, which will include regular client contact, financial and employment assessment, collateral calls to other agencies and referrals to support services as required.
Completes in person updates with every active client as prescribed in the legislation.
Issues benefits for clients as prescribed by the Ontario Works Act.
Maintains program integrity by updating appropriate computer applications with changes in client’s circumstances.
Prepares month end reports as required.
Addresses and acts on all client or community correspondence, and actions computer output on all case files on a daily basis. Returns client calls within 24 hours.
Collaborates with partnering agencies and/or regional departments on case management through case conferencing and joint meetings.
Provides recommendations to reduce systemic barriers for clients.
Works on a multi-disciplinary team made up of community partners.
Responsible for adhering to regional purchasing bylaws for use of Regional P Card.
Promotes Outreach program in the community including with private sector.
Provides supports to OW clients with rental arrears.
Works in a team environment where coverage for co-workers, information sharing and support are required.
Responsible for maintaining a safe environment by adhering to established safety protocols.
Act as a champion or subject matter expert in specific program areas.
Completes home visits as required following further collaboration between caseworker and client.
Other duties as required which may include but not limited to chairing meetings, making presentations to community agencies, special projects, etc.
Acts as a resource providing information and making referrals for clients on services available internally or externally in the community.
Assess all client circumstances and make decisions on the appropriateness of the pursuit of support.
Maintains a thorough knowledge of government policies, programs and legislation relevant to OW and MCSS.
Review support related documents to complete necessary forms to assess initial and ongoing eligibility.
Advise FSR on delivery method for all cheques to clients and third parties including initiating requests for traces and replacement cheques.
Recommends changes to existing operations, programs, practices and policies from a client centered perspective.