Child Victim Witness Advocate

Boost Child & Youth Advocacy Centre•Toronto, ON

60d•$58,000 - $60,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Child Victim Witness (CVW) Advocate provides support to children, youth and their families who are required to testify in criminal court proceedings. Responsibilities include court preparation sessions, collaboration with justice system partners and court accompaniment and support. This position is not a clinical or therapy-based role, but requires strong knowledge of trauma, crisis response, and case management. Facility Dog – Secondary Handler Responsibilities This position requires the successful candidate to become an approved Secondary Handler for a Boost CYAC Facility Accredited Dog through National Service Dogs (NSD). The successful candidate must complete handler training through NSD, successfully pass a Public Access Test (PAT) and maintain certification as required The Public Access Test ensures the service dog demonstrates stable behaviour, remains under handler control, and can safely operate in public environments. Although handlers provide day-to-day care, Boost CYAC and NSD retain final decision-making authority regarding the care, placement, and eventual retirement of the facility dog. Adoption of the dog at the end of its working career is determined jointly by Boost CYAC and NSD. The CVW Advocate will also: Provide backup court support for the Peterborough Child Victim Witness Support Program, when required. Travel and accommodation expenses will be covered by the organization. Receive training to provide onsite investigative support and backup advocacy support within the Toronto office as required.

Requirements

Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) or equivalent education in social work, child & youth care, or a related field.
Minimum of three (3) years relevant experience, preferably supporting victims of violence, abuse and trauma.
Ability to support a diverse client population using trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, anti-racist and culturally responsive practices.
Understanding of the Child & Youth Advocacy Model and experience collaborating within multidisciplinary teams (MDTs).
Knowledge of the criminal justice system, including legislation, criminal charges, court procedures, and victim/witness supports.
Awareness of different of trauma including sexual and physical abuse, neglect and race and gender based trauma).
Ability to respond to crisis situations, screen for suicide risk and develop safety plans (ASIST training considered an asset).
Knowledge of the Child, Youth and Family Services Act.
Ability to maintain personal wellness and self-care when working in potentially stressful situations.
Strong interpersonal, written and organizational skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Proficiency with computer systems, data base and electronic records (EMHware experience considered an asset).
Demonstrated professionalism, sound judgment, confidentiality and initiative.
Satisfactory Vulnerable Sector Screening.

Nice To Haves

ASIST training considered an asset.
EMHware experience considered an asset

Responsibilities

Provide court preparation session(s) for children and youth including discussing fears, and concerns about testifying, explaining the court process and roles within the courtroom and identifying strategies to reduce anxiety.
Liaise with Crown Attorney’s, Victim Witness Assistance Program staff, police and child protection professionals to advocate for child witnesses.
Assess children’s testimonial competency and the need for testimonial accommodations (e.g., closed-circuit television, remote testimony), when requested by the court.
Accompany children and youth to court and service as a Designated Support Person, as required.
Support caregivers and provide guidance on helping children/youth navigate the court process.
Provide post court support including debriefing with children and families, assistance with Victim Impact Statements and referrals for counselling and community services.
Assist families with applications to the Victim Quick Response+ Program.
Provide support and education to children, youth and families attending Boost CYAC for investigative interviews.
Deliver crisis intervention in consultation with the multidisciplinary team when significant safety and/or mental health concerns arise.
Facilitate referrals to internal Boost CYAC services and community based supports.
Attend required handler training and certification with National Service Dogs.
Maintain proper handling practices and professional standards during interactions with clients, staff and partners.
Support the ongoing training and behavioral development of the facility dog.
Transport the dog to and from the office and to court or community appointments.
Provide safe housing and daily care outside working hours, including feeding, exercise, grooming/hygiene and veterinary care/
Coordinate with Primary Handlers; BARK Program Lead and NSD to ensure the wellbeing and appropriate use of the facility dog.

Benefits

Health and dental benefits after a 3-month waiting period
RRSP program, with guaranteed and matching contributions after two years of continuous service.
$500 Health Spending Account
Employee and Family Assistance Program
Internal and external professional development and training opportunities.
Agency social events and engagement activities
3 weeks vacation
9 sick days
6 personal obligation days
3 religious/cultural days
Paid day off before long weekends between June and September.
Office closure during the December holiday break, with paid time off for employees.