Job Description

Position Scope: DSP Support Staff is expected to function within the philosophy and principles, rules of work, policies and procedures of the Elizabeth Fry Society of Mainland Nova Scotia. DSP Support Staff may be required to take ongoing professional development and training to ensure the necessary skills, knowledge and capacities are maintained and developed.

Key Requirements: includes but is not limited to crisis support, job readiness skill support, safety planning, advocacy and referrals, as well as household duties that support residents during their stay at any EFRY residential location.

Job Specific Characteristics:

Knowledge of community organizations

Knowledge of the justice system

Understanding of solution focus/feminist/behavioral approaches

Knowledge of the complex barriers to housing, education and employment

Excellent interpersonal skills

Ability to multi-task

Non-judgmental approach

Comprehensive understanding of confidentiality and boundaries

Ability to problem solve

Effective communication both verbal and written

Ability to function as a team member

Ability to work independently

Ability to make appropriate decisions

Ability to manage time effectively

Ability to function in a crisis

Must be patient and empathic

Job Specific Requirements - General:

*Casual staff is required for holiday coverage and short notice sick coverage

Must provide one-on-one support

Must network with landlords, employers, mental health professionals and educational institutions as required

Must assist criminalized women with life skills planning and community reintegration

Must liaise with Income Assistance, Probation and Child Protection as required

Must liaise with employers and support clients with employment maintenance

Must maintain and develop community networks

Must maintain professional records and documentation on all aspects of the position, using approved tools

Must participate in case management and monthly house meetings

Must attend staff meetings as required

-Must be approved for Reliability Status clearance before work can commence

Maintaining Adherence to Policies, Procedures and Health and Safety Standards:

Follow policies, procedures and uphold organizational standards

Be familiar with and able to implement the emergency evacuation plan

Make appropriate decisions and take appropriate action in times of crisis

Ensure the office and programming area is clean, tidy and in a well-kept condition

On-going Professional Development:

Participate in on-going staff training and development.

Participate in performance appraisals and self-reporting requirements

Adopt and maintain a women centered, non-discriminatory, anti-racist, culturally competent approach.

Adopt and maintain a solution-focused, feminist, behavior centered approach to helping relationships.

Qualifications:

Post-secondary education in social sciences, social work, or 5 years equivalent training/experience working with criminalized women and girls in a program setting

Knowledge of community based women's organizations and resources

Knowledge of the barriers women face in finding housing and employment

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Knowledge of women's issues and the criminal justice system

Experience in data and evaluation

Certificate in first aid/CPR required

Valid driver's license

Car (preferred)

Core Competencies

Have regular and reliable access to transportation

Ability to work as a member of a team

At Elizabeth Fry Society Mainland Nova Scotia, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from Indigenous People, African Canadians and Other Racially Visible Persons for the DSP Support Worker position. This prioritization is in accordance with the Aboriginal Employment Preference Policy of the Canadian Human Rights Commission and our dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion within our organization. If this applies to you, you are encouraged to self-identify in your cover letter.

Job Type: Casual

Pay: $22.33 per hour

Benefits:

Casual dress On-site parking
Ability to commute/relocate:

Halifax, NS B3N 1W2: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Work Location: In person