Job Description

Harm Reduction Outreach Worker
Division: Project X, Harm Reduction
Work Status: Part Time, Fixed Term
Location: Durham Region (all locations as required)

POSTING DATE: AUGUST 18, 2022

CLOSING DATE: SEPTEMBER 1, 2022 or extended until the position is filled
About the Program: The Project X-Change Program is dedicated to meaningfully engaging people who use substances in a non-judgmental, culturally safe, and non-coercive way. It values a respect for human rights, dignity, choice, and self-determination while addressing specific risks for transmission of HCV, HIV and Overdose as well as the harms associated with the use of substances. It recognizes that Harm Reduction strategies call for a broad range of interventions while not requiring cessation or abstinence. The Worker will provide both community and in-office access to sterile injection and inhalation equipment, Naloxone and its training component, client supports, education and referrals to appropriate supports and resources along with information promoting safer substance use and safer sex to individuals involved in at-risk activities.
Status: Part Time, Fixed Term (6 months, 24 weeks) Hours: 20 hours per week, Days/Afternoons/Evenings/Weekends Location: Durham Region Reports to: Coordinator of Harm Reduction Travel: Yes, as required (mileage reimbursement) Salary: $21.10 per hour
Benefits: No
Start Date: October 1, 2022
End Date: March 31, 2023
Requirements

• Minimum of College diploma in related field (Addictions and Mental Health, Social Service Worker, etc)
• Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening required
• Must have or be willing to get Hepatitis B vaccinations
• Demonstrate strong understanding of harm reduction philosophy as it relates to substance use
• Experience working with marginalized and diverse populations
• Non-judgmental, strong problem solving and superior communication skills
• Flexibility in schedule, days, hours
• Be able to demonstrate a strong ability to work with a Windows NT/WAN operating system, and able to use Internet, Email, Microsoft Office products, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
• Able to write professional correspondence, including memos, letters, etc.
• Basic mathematical skills
• Ability to apply understanding to carry out instructions in written, verbal, or diagram form.
• Adjusts and is flexible to meet changing work needs and demands
• Superior telephone manners and strong interpersonal skills

This position REQUIRES that you must have previous LIVED or LIVING EXPERIENCE with substance use.
What is LIVED EXPERIENCE? Lived experience refers to people who have used one or more substances and who are currently in recovery. Living experience refers to people who are currently using one or more substances.

Client/Customer Service

• Actively engage priority population to establish trust and rapport to provide services
• Facilitate exchanges by providing accessible and safe nonjudgmental access to sterile equipment/supplies and proper disposal of used items; provide Naloxone training
• Counsel and educate at-risk individuals in Harm Reduction techniques
• Provide referrals as necessary
• Follow Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care best practices guidelines to ensure quality of service

Case Management/Documentation

• Keep accurate statistical data related to program
• Maintain filing systems, databases and records
• Meet all required deadlines

Community Liaison

• Assist with program promotion
• Develop connections with organizations that are relevant to the client group to reduce barriers for access and referral
• Provide education and information about Hepatitis C, HIV/AIDS and STBBI’s and promote/encourage testing and treatment for same
• Attend any training, workshops, or meetings as deemed appropriate to the role or directed by the funder
• Provide information to staff and/or clients about agency programs and services.

Working Conditions

• May be exposed to infectious waste, diseases, conditions, etc
• Physical activity includes sitting, walking and standing
• May require lifting up to 35lbs
• COVID-19 protocols and policies are in place, PPE is provided
• Must be willing to undergo a Police Vulnerable Sector Check and Children's Aid Society Screening
• JHS Durham is currently certified with C.U.P.E and is in collective bargaining

COVID 19 Vaccination Policy: The John Howard Society of Durham Region believes that immunization against COVID-19 is an individual and societal responsibility and that we must do everything possible to protect our clients, families, employees, students, volunteers, and contractors against the spread of COVID-19. As a condition of employment, proof of full vaccination or exemption under the Ontario Human Rights Code must be submitted to Human Resources seven (7) calendar days prior to start date.
Reviewed: August 9, 2022