Shelter Worker

The Salvation Army Canada and Bermuda Territory•Nanaimo, BC

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Shelter Worker at The Salvation Army's Nanaimo Centre of Hope plays a pivotal role in providing compassionate care, support, and assistance to individuals experiencing homelessness and seeking refuge within the shelter. Shelter Workers contribute to creating a safe, welcoming, and respectful environment that upholds the core values and mission of The Salvation Army. Working at the front desk, the Shelter Worker is the touchpoint for all staff, clients, visitors, volunteers, and programs at the NHC.

Requirements

High School Graduation or equivalent required.
Clear TB Skin Test required.
Criminal record clearance through the BC Criminal Records Review Program required.
Minimum of six (6) months experience in related field (mental health and addictions) including experience with frontline work in a social service setting.
Fundamental understanding of homelessness, poverty and addiction and barriers faced by NHC clients.
Knowledge of available community resources in Nanaimo.
Ability to uphold appropriate, consistent boundaries.
Ability to use sound judgement while working in demanding conditions and circumstances.
Attention to detail, problem solving and analytical skills.
Strong sense of integrity and confidentiality with professional ethics and a balanced sense of fairness and flexibility.
Superior people skills.
Superior analytical and problem-solving skills.
Highly proficient on computer; fluent in Microsoft Excel.
Excellent ability to work well in a fast-paced and high-stress environment.
Flexible and creative.
Strong time-management skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication.

Nice To Haves

Post-secondary education (Certificate, Diploma, Degree) in relevant field (Social Work, Psychology, Counselling, Mental Health & Addictions) preferred.
Valid Occupational First Aid Level 1 or equivalent an asset.
Valid Class 5 Driver's License an asset.
Valid WHIMS certificate an asset.
Completion of NHC mandatory, especially ARMATUS abuse training, required.

Responsibilities

Promotes the independence, safety, and overall quality of life of those in care of the NHC.
Fosters a welcoming and supportive atmosphere within the shelter.
Receives clients and visitors, and monitors access to the facility.
Monitors and records the activities of the clients.
Accurately records day-to-day happenings using appropriate methods; maintains logbooks and completes incident reports.
Liaise with external agencies as needed (e.g. police, first responders).
Assess clients' immediate needs and any potential safety concerns.
Ensures the safety and security of all clients and staff within the shelter facility.
Monitors the premises to prevent any unauthorized access or disturbances.
Implements emergency protocols as needed, such as fire drills or evacuation procedures.
Distributes bedding, blankets, and hygiene supplies in accordance with policies and procedure.
Responds to any conflicts or crises that may arise among clients.
Mediates disputes and de-escalates tense situations to maintain a peaceful environment.
Performs security checks such as bed checks and room searches.
Carries out inspection/security checks of property and grounds in accordance with policies and procedures.
Communicates and enforces shelter rules and guidelines to clients.
Addresses any rule violations with empathy while maintaining order within the shelter.
Maintains accurate records of client interactions, including intake information, services provided, and any incidents that occur.
Completes necessary paperwork and data entry as required by the organization.
Collaborates with fellow shelter workers, case managers, and other professionals to ensure a holistic approach to client care.
Collaborates with kitchen staff to ensure a smooth meal service process.
Encourages clients to engage in positive activities and interactions.
Respects and maintains the confidentiality of client information and personal stories.
Records, tracks, maintains, and reports all client-related data (e.g., financial, housing, occupancy & vacancies, case management, internal and external statistics, etc.).
Enters and maintains NHC Program Participant financial information.
Conscientiously observes the confidential nature of the agency's service to its clients and participants.
Manages client medication in accordance with policies and procedures.
Acts as a secure and supportive presence in the facility while monitoring behavior, basic structural and operational conditions as per policies and procedures.
May help support, deliver, or facilitate programming for shelter clients, including approved community resources (e.g., VIU or VIHA programs) and/or internal resources (e.g., sharing a skill or hobby) in accordance with operational capacity and needs of the shelter, and in consultation with the NHC management.
Ensures the public areas are maintained according to NHC standards.
Attends all staff meetings and training seminars related to agency services as requested.
May be assigned other related duties according to agency needs at the discretion of the NHC management.