Atira Women’s Resource Society Is Now Hiring Womens Support Worker – SisterSpace – Vancouver, BC

Requisition Number: WOMEN001159
Type: Internal & External – Part-time (Indeterminate)
Hours of Work: 17.5 hrs./week (Friday Through Sunday; 5:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.) with every second Sunday off
Compensation: $26.69 – $28.73/hr. based on experience, plus a generous leave, benefits and Pension package
Program & Location: SisterSpace Shared Using Space – Downtown Eastside, Oppenheimer Park Neighbourhood, Vancouver
Deadline: Open until Filled

About Us:
Atira Women’s Resource Society, an award-winning nonprofit organization known for its inclusionary hiring practices and where a job is more than a pay cheque. We offer the opportunity to work alongside a remarkable group of women working to make the world a more just place, one woman, one child, one home, one job at a time.

About the Job:
Reporting to the Program Manager, the Women’s Support Worker is responsible for the day-to-day work of supporting women with a wide array of emotional and practical work. Activities range from active listening/one-to-one support, accompaniments and advocacy, supporting women in securing safe, affordable, appropriate long-term housing, preparing and delivering food, to assisting with medication and health care, including administration of naloxone. We encourage creativity and leadership and make space for staff to develop and implement programming in collaboration with women and their co-workers. Lived expertise is an asset, as is living in the community in which you work. Atira strives to hire staff who reflect the women we serve.

About You:
You are a feminist, passionate about the work of ending violence against women and children. You embrace Atira’s mission, vision, values and philosophy. You have a well-developed understanding of and commitment to anti-oppression work and intersectionality. You are familiar with colonialism especially as it applies in Canada and you understand the impact of the residential school system. You are committed to working with women who are struggling with substance use and or mental wellness and understand and are comfortable working within a harm reduction environment. You support women who choose abstinence, but understand abstinence is just one option for women struggling with substance use. Your definition of woman includes transgender, two spirit and intersex women, and transfeminine individuals. You are sex worker positive.

You question actions inconsistent with our values and you treat everyone with fairness and respect independent of their status or disagreement with you. You expect great things from yourself and your co-workers. You inspire others with your passion for women’s anti-violence work and your eagerness for excellence. You contribute to an environment where women can flourish and grow and you seek what is best for women, rather than what’s best for you or your team. You challenge the status quo to improve quality and sustainability and you take smart risks and make tough decisions without agonizing.
Resumes from qualified First Nations, Métis and or Inuk women are encouraged, as are resumes from Black women, women of colour, trans women, women who are disabled and women from other equity seeking groups. Fluency in a language(s) other than English is an asset.

Additional Requisites/Assets:

• A valid First Aid Certificate is required
• Non-Violent Crisis Intervention Certificate is an asset
• You must have a legal authorization to work in Canada.
• Minimum one (1) year front-line support work experience; preference given to candidates with lived expertise
• Covid-19 (Including Booster) and annual flu vaccinations are required, unless with exemption
• All positions are subject to a Criminal Records Review (Submitted by Atira)

Application Process:
Provide a cover letter with a current resume describing how you meet or exceed the above-noted qualifications. Resumes with a Cover Letter unique to Atira are guaranteed a review. Candidates who lack the experience and qualifications set out in the posting may not be considered, although an exceptional cover letter and transferable skills may overcome lack of experience for some positions. Please go to atira.bc.ca/careers for a current list of postings.

What skills and qualities are important for a Support Worker?

A Support Worker plays a crucial role in providing assistance and care to individuals who may require support due to physical or mental health conditions, disabilities, or other challenges. To excel in this role, several skills and qualities are important:

1. Empathy and Compassion: Support Workers need to demonstrate genuine empathy and compassion towards the individuals they are assisting. They should be able to understand their needs, concerns, and emotions, and provide support with kindness and sensitivity.
2. Effective Communication: Strong communication skills are essential for Support Workers. They must be able to listen attentively, communicate clearly and effectively, and adapt their communication style to suit the needs of the individual. Good communication helps build trust and fosters a positive relationship between the Support Worker and the person they are supporting.
3. Patience and Tolerance: Support Workers often work with individuals who may have challenging behaviors or require extra time and assistance. Patience is crucial in these situations, as it allows the Support Worker to maintain a calm and supportive approach, even in difficult circumstances. Tolerance helps in accepting differences and respecting individual choices and preferences.
4. Problem-Solving and Adaptability: Support Workers encounter diverse situations and challenges on a daily basis. They need to be resourceful problem-solvers who can think quickly and find practical solutions. Adaptability is also important as they may need to adjust their approach and techniques based on the changing needs and circumstances of the individual they are supporting.
5. Organizational and Time Management Skills: Support Workers often have multiple responsibilities and tasks to juggle. Effective organizational and time management skills enable them to prioritize their work, complete tasks efficiently, and ensure that the needs of individuals are met promptly.
6. Teamwork and Collaboration: Support Workers often work as part of a larger team, which may include other healthcare professionals, social workers, or family members. They should be able to collaborate effectively, share information, and work together towards common goals. Being a team player helps create a harmonious and coordinated approach to care.
7. Respect for Confidentiality: Support Workers handle sensitive information about individuals, their health, and personal lives. They must understand and respect the importance of confidentiality, maintaining privacy and confidentiality in all aspects of their work.
8. Physical and Emotional Resilience: The role of a Support Worker can be physically and emotionally demanding. They may need to assist individuals with personal care, handle challenging behaviors, or support individuals through difficult emotional situations. Having resilience helps them cope with these demands and maintain their own well-being.
9. Cultural Sensitivity and Diversity Awareness: Support Workers work with individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs. Having an understanding and respect for different cultures, traditions, and values is important to provide culturally sensitive and inclusive support.
10. Continuous Learning: The field of support work is constantly evolving, and new techniques, interventions, and knowledge emerge. Support Workers should have a desire for ongoing learning and professional development, staying up to date with best practices and approaches in the field.

These skills and qualities contribute to the effectiveness and quality of support provided by Support Workers, enabling them to make a positive impact on the lives of the individuals they serve.

What education and certification are required to become a Support Worker?

The education and certification requirements to become a Support Worker can vary depending on the country, state, or specific employer. In some cases, formal education may not be mandatory, but it can enhance your skills and employability. Here are some general guidelines:

Education:

• High School Diploma or Equivalent: Most employers require a high school diploma or an equivalent qualification, such as a General Education Development (GED) certificate.
  Post-Secondary Education: While not always mandatory, completing a certificate, diploma, or degree program in a relevant field can be beneficial. Programs in fields such as social work, psychology, healthcare, disability studies, or community services can provide you with a solid foundation of knowledge and skills related to support work.
  Certification and Training:
• Basic Life Support (BLS) or First Aid/CPR Certification: Many employers require Support Workers to hold a valid BLS or First Aid/CPR certification. These certifications ensure that you have the necessary skills to respond to medical emergencies or provide immediate assistance in case of injuries or accidents.
• Additional Certifications: Depending on the specific population or field you wish to work in, there may be additional certifications that can be beneficial. For example, if you plan to work with individuals with developmental disabilities, you may benefit from certifications such as Certified Developmental Disabilities Professional (CDDP) or Certified Developmental Disabilities Specialist (CDDS).
• On-the-Job Training: Many employers provide on-the-job training specific to their organization and the population they serve. This training can include policies and procedures, specific care techniques, and relevant legal and ethical considerations.

It’s important to note that the requirements for education and certification can vary significantly depending on the specific role, employer, and country or region. It’s recommended to research the specific requirements of the area where you plan to work or consult with local authorities or organizations that oversee support work roles.

Additionally, continuing education and professional development opportunities are often available to Support Workers. These opportunities can help you expand your skills, stay updated with best practices, and advance in your career.

Who can apply to this job?

The employer accepts applications from:

• Canadian citizens and permanent or temporary residents of Canada.
• Other candidates with or without a valid Canadian work permit.

How to apply
Online: Apply On Company WebSite

What is the work environment like for Support Worker?

The work environment for Support Workers can vary depending on the specific setting and population they serve. Here are some common work environments where Support Workers can be found:

1. Residential Care Facilities: Support Workers may work in group homes, assisted living facilities, or residential care facilities, where they provide support and assistance to individuals with disabilities, mental health conditions, or elderly individuals who need help with daily activities.
2. Hospitals and Healthcare Settings: Support Workers may work in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare settings, where they provide support to patients who require assistance with mobility, personal care, or emotional support. They may collaborate with nurses, doctors, and other healthcare professionals as part of a larger care team.
3. Community Centers and Non-Profit Organizations: Support Workers may be employed by community centers, non-profit organizations, or social service agencies. They may provide support to individuals in the community who require assistance due to various challenges, such as homelessness, substance abuse, or mental health issues.
4. Schools and Educational Institutions: Support Workers can work in schools or educational institutions, supporting students with disabilities or special educational needs. They may assist with classroom integration, provide one-on-one support, or help with behavioral management.
5. Home Care Settings: Some Support Workers provide services in clients’ homes, where they assist individuals with daily living activities, personal care, medication management, and household tasks. This can include working with elderly individuals, individuals with disabilities, or those recovering from illnesses or injuries.
6. Rehabilitation Centers: Support Workers may work in rehabilitation centers, providing support and assistance to individuals recovering from physical injuries, surgeries, or mental health conditions. They may help with exercises, therapy sessions, and emotional support during the rehabilitation process.

The work environment for Support Workers can be both rewarding and challenging. They often work directly with individuals who may be facing physical, emotional, or psychological difficulties. The work can involve both one-on-one interactions and collaboration with a team of professionals. Depending on the specific setting, the work hours may vary, including shifts, weekends, or overnight schedules.

Support Workers should expect a dynamic work environment, where tasks and responsibilities can vary from day to day. Flexibility, adaptability, and the ability to work well under pressure are important qualities for success in this field.