Harm Reduction Worker

Gilbert Centre • Barrie, ON

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Harm Reduction Worker, as a part of the Harm Reduction Team at the Gilbert Centre, will provide harm reduction support, information and referrals for people who use drugs (PWUD), and their supports. This will include interacting with service users onsite and during outreach, as well as distributing harm reduction materials in various community-based settings. The Harm Reduction Worker uses anti-oppressive, trauma informed principles to build relationships with individuals who may be experiencing homelessness or precarious housing, using drugs, experiencing mental health challenges, and/or engaged in sex work.

We are a justice-informed, harm reduction organization that does things differently – and we are proud of that. We walk alongside people rather than leading them. We believe in the dignity and autonomy of everyone who comes through our doors. And we are building something meaningful.

Requirements

• Ability to respond quickly to emergency, including opioid overdose is required
• Ability to work independently on a flexible schedule, and collaboratively - within and across teams is required.
• Strong interpersonal, decision making, conflict management, critical thinking and organizational skills are required.
• Ability to have open and non-judgmental conversation about drug-use is required.
• Demonstrated commitment to community development, engagement, and accountability practices is required.
• Strong oral and written communication skills are required.
• Proficiency in the use of computer technology.
• Valid driver’s license and a 3-year driver's abstract OR use of a personal vehicle (mileage to be reimbursed for work related travel).
• Willingness to travel throughout Simcoe/Muskoka for work related duties.
• Awareness of and sensitivity to the health issues of a diverse community and experience working with disenfranchised populations (including but not limited to PWUD, those employed in sex work, the 2SLGBTQ+ communities, and for people living with HIV and/or HCV).
• Commitment to social justice, diversity, equity, and anti-oppression principles.

Nice To Haves

• Relevant knowledge and experience of harm reduction principles and strategies, in addition to structural understanding of how systems and policy impact the lived/living experiences of the people we serve is preferred.
• Ideal candidates will have one to two years’ experience working in paid or unpaid positions in community-based settings with PWUD. Previous outreach experience is an asset.
• Formal education in a relevant field of study (social science, health promotion, social work, adult education or any related fields) is an asset.
• French language proficiency is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Distributes harm reduction supplies on site, through in-reach at other agencies, and during walking outreach.
• Provides overdose prevention support/education to community members, including education to participants and community members regarding the use of Naloxone.
• Provides safer drug use equipment to community as requested.
• Participates in needle sweeps as part of outreach, which includes the collection and discarding of drug use equipment, such as needles and stems.
• Supports delivery of low-barrier groups and community development initiatives for PWUD, engage in sex work, and/or are experiencing mental health challenges.
• Assesses participant knowledge of best practice for safer drug use and provides education/information regarding alternative drug use techniques to facilitate best possible health outcomes when appropriate.
• Works with participants to assess drug use knowledge and provide education and information regarding best practices that fit the participants’ context and lived experience, while promoting autonomy.
• Provides education to service providers and other community members regarding harm reduction and overdose prevention, including use and administration of Naloxone.
• De-escalates and manages conflict with/among participants at the centre in accordance with established policies and procedures.
• Provides supportive counseling, community information, and referrals to participants that best meet their self-determined needs.
• Monitors and evaluates program activities with the community and makes recommendations for appropriate changes as needed.
• Assists with stocking of harm reduction supplies on site and for outreach activities.
• Attends community based collaborative meetings with other agencies and community partners regarding drug use, sex work, poverty, and homelessness.
• Participates in professional development opportunities to enhance professional knowledge.
• Works to promote health equity and social justice within the scope of the role.
• Documents interactions with participants and the community for internal and external reporting.
• Run drop-in programming, which includes food prep, cleaning, orienting participants to the space, hallway/bathroom checks, etc.
• Collaborates with Gilbert Centre management and staff on projects and activities that strengthen the Centre’s programs and services, including team meetings and organizational events.
• Keeps supervisor informed and up to date on relevant issues.
• Performs other duties as required and/or as assigned by supervisor.
• Contribute to a collaborative, compassionate and equity-focused work culture.
• Follows all Health & Safety protocols

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits through Canada Life, including health, dental, vision, and drug coverage.
• Generous paid time off: 3 weeks’ vacation, 3 weeks’ sick leave, and 1 week of float time to start.
• The security and protections of a unionized workplace (CUPE Local 1813.14).
• A workplace culture rooted in autonomy, hope, courage, and compassion – not just for clients, but for staff.
• Opportunities for professional development within a collaborative multidisciplinary team.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed