Youth Supported Independent Living - Direct Support Worker(Term)
About The Position
New Directions is a social service agency offering a wide range of resources and services that foster people’s hopes and dreams in their communities. The Youth Supported Independent Living Program offers supports for youth who have developed basic skills to live independently with supports and are interested in starting to live more independently as they continue working towards their adult life goals (i.e., work, education, relationships, self-care, life in community, etc.), and solidify their independent living skills (i.e., fully manage their budget, keep up with work and education responsibilities independently, use community resources, take care of their mental and physical health, connect with significant others and community meaningfully). We are currently seeking Direct Support Worker for a specialized home that is designed to assist children and youth to develop life skills, social skills and/or access community resources. Individual care and guidance is provided to align with the needs of the child/youth to assist with mental health issues, behavioral challenges, or addictions. We provide stabilization through predictable structures, clear expectations and positive behavior support. Supports are provided 24 hours, 7 days a week, in fast-paced shift staffed homes operated by New Directions. The position is an awake overnight shift from 11pm to 7am.
Requirements
- High School Diploma or equivalent.
- Minimum two (2) years experience working with individuals with intellectual and/or cognitive disabilities. Varying experience and education may be considered
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Demonstrated understanding of Trauma Informed Care
- A valid Class 5 driver’s license is a requirement for this position
Nice To Haves
- Post-secondary education in the area(s) of disability services, Youth Care Worker, and/or mental health
- ASIST and/or Mental Health Training
Responsibilities
- Ability to work within a multi-disciplinary team
- Demonstrate skills in basic counselling, crisis intervention, conflict resolution and problem solving
- Provide support with daily life skills, social skills and /or behaviour management.
- Assist with building skills in basic cooking, money management, shopping, and safety skills.
- Facilitate physical, recreational, educational, social and vocational activities, and maintain liaison with other agencies, professionals, government officials and the community.
- Accompany and/or transport individuals to activities such as appointments, shopping, school, employment or leisure activities.
- Recognize, analyze and deal with potential emergency situations such as individuals’ aggressive behaviour to minimize potential harm to the person and/or the public.
- Administer medication to individuals in accordance with established policies and procedures.
- Actively engage in harm reduction approaches
- Ensure health and safety standards are maintained
- Attend to the physical, emotional, and medical needs of the children or youth
- Ensure that all required documentation is complete and accurate
Benefits
- Health and Dental Benefits
- Long Term Disability Benefits
- Pension Plan
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
High school or GED
