Peer Worker (RAAM)

House of Friendship•Kitchener, ON

2d•CA$23 - CA$29•Onsite

About The Position

The Rapid Access Addiction Medicine (RAAM) Clinic is a walk-in clinic for those concerned with their substance use and seeking support. We provide low-barrier, quick access to addiction medicine providers, addiction counsellors and peer workers for individuals looking to explore or make changes to their substance use. Peer Workers are the first point of contact for individuals accessing RAAM and share their own, personal, lived experience with substance use and recovery as a means of providing support and connecting with others experiencing similar challenges.

Requirements

Sensitivity to and knowledge of issues relating to and impacting on all genders and marginalized populations
Strong understanding of interpersonal skills and the ability to engage in meaningful conversations to develop rapport with individuals who use substances using a strength-based approach
Demonstrated capacity for accurate and efficient documentation and computer data entry
Demonstrated ability to calmly problem-solve in a fast-paced, sometimes stressful environment
Strong communication and listening skills
Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively with an interdisciplinary team
Commitment to understand and uphold the mission and values of House of Friendship is expected.
Commitment to and understanding of the Core Values of Peer Support and the Peer Support Code of Conduct
Ability to accept and apply feedback and take initiative
Extensive knowledge of community resources, service and support programs/groups, and barriers participants face in accessing them
Commitment to ongoing professional development and training
Minimum College Diploma or University Degree in related field of study required (i.e. social services, social work, addictions, mental health, community development etc.)
Has had lived experience with substance use and addiction
Knowledge and understanding of the complexities of substances, problematic substance use and recovery oriented interventions required
Experience with or strong interest in working with diverse populations including people from various cultural backgrounds, income levels, and sensitivity to their needs
Experience with and commitment to using an anti-racism, anti-oppressive and trauma informed approach to consultation, program design, evaluations of processes and service delivery
Comfort sharing personal experiences with others to inspire hope
Ability to manage difficult emotions/triggers prompted by listening to participant’s experiences
Ability to work effectively in a wide range of settings including interdisciplinary teams, outreach, RAAM Clinics, hospitals, and other community agencies
Willingness to learn and be adaptable as programs grow and evolve
Exemplary emotional intelligence, resilience, communication, conflict management and problem-solving skills required
Possess the skill and confidence to navigate and support persons in crisis situations
Demonstrated ability to make good decisions and problem solve complex situations
Ability to establish rapport and build appropriate professional relationships
Professional, approachable and welcoming demeanor
Must be dependable, professional, flexible, a team player, and have a positive attitude
Respectful, supportive and engaging approach to persons with physical and/or cognitive disabilities, addictions, mental illness and other life challenges
Excellent project, timeline and deadline management skills including skills in logistics, planning and detailed record keeping
Successful completion of a Police Records Check (Vulnerable Sector) required pre-employment.
Comfort sharing your own experiences with others
Required to work intensively with program participants in emotionally charged situations
Required to assess situations and make decisions under pressure with minimal supervision or while working alone
Encountering participants at program sites who may be under the influence of alcohol or other drugs, and/or experiencing symptoms of mental illness can be expected

Nice To Haves

Peer Support Certification would be considered an asset
Option to pick up additional shifts throughout the week as needed and as available
Opportunity to participate in program development on an as-needed basis

Responsibilities

Greet and welcome participants, build rapport, and create a comfortable and judgement-free atmosphere while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries
Frontline de-escalation and conflict resolution to support individuals experiencing challenges related to mental health and addiction
Willingness to share personal journey with addiction and recovery in a common area on an ongoing basis
Manage individual caseload (average 6-10 participants), providing individual and system-navigation support; this may involve actively supporting participants with entering other programs
Act as a role model for self care and self-awareness
Use a person-centered approach to provide participants with appropriate information on resources in the community
Work with/have access to confidential material and maintain compliance with Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA)
Facilitate completion of urinary drug screening
Work as part of an interdisciplinary team, supporting the participant process, advocating for participants needs, etc.
Participation and involvement in other programs, Addiction Services and broader agency activities. Building and maintaining relationships with other programs and organizations within the community