Family Support Worker

The Position

Under the supervision of the Child and Family Support Services Manager, the Family Support Worker is expected to assist and support parents in their role as caregivers, with the goal of promoting parental competency and strengthening family life, leading to healthy children and family development. This position is expected to be flexible and adaptable to changing circumstances on-site.

The Candidate

• Support implementation of care plan activities under the direction of and in collaboration with the Child and Family Case Manager.
• Attend meetings with external agencies at the request of families and provide support during those meetings when appropriate; advocate respectfully alongside families when additional support is needed.
• Support parents/caregivers in applying for and accessing mental health and substance use addiction treatment services in collaboration with the team when appropriate.
• Communicate concerns, emerging risks, or changes in family circumstances to the Child and Family Case Manager in a timely manner.
• Maintain current knowledge of local parenting programs and community resources available to families.
• Work with families to assess needs and determine the type of support or programming required, such as infant development, parent groups, recreation, culture, or other community resources; make referrals and assist with enrollment as appropriate.
• Create and maintain a schedule of appointments, meetings, and check-ins as required.
• Assist parents/caregivers in developing plans and identifying strategies or techniques for managing challenging behaviours, collaborating with other supports where appropriate.
• Provide guidance, coaching and hands-on assistance to support development of daily living skills such as positive parenting, household management, grocery shopping, food preparation, budgeting, organization, decluttering, and maintaining safe home environments.
• Build and maintain trusting, respectful relationships with shíshálh children, youth, parents, caregivers, and extended family members.
• Perform other tasks within the scope of the position and as assigned.

Qualifications, Skills and Abilities:

• Secondary school graduation and a combination of education, training, and experience in social services, health, family support, or a related field.
• Family Support Certificate or willingness to obtain within the first year of employment.
• Home Visitor Training or willingness to obtain within the first year of employment.
• A minimum of two (2) years of experience working with children, youth, or families in a supportive role, preferably within a First Nations environment.
• Demonstrated understanding of Indigenous child and family well-being, including the impacts of intergenerational trauma, family violence, and systemic barriers.
• Strong understanding of trauma-informed practice and the ability to apply this lens in daily interactions.
• Knowledge of behavioural responses related to abuse, neglect, and stress.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Adobe, and other required software programs.
• Commitment to ongoing learning and participation in training as directed.
• A valid driver’s license and a clean Criminal Record Check.