Mental Health Support Worker (Full Time)

Lookout Housing and Health Society
Full Time Temporary until incumbent returns
We provide housing and a range of support services to adults with low or no income who have few, if any, housing or support options. Sunday through Tuesday
Shift times will be 08:00 - 19:00 Hours
Shifts are 10.5 hours in length
The Mental Health Worker reports to the Program Manager, or designate. The position works in accordance with the mission and philosophy of Lookout Housing and Health Society including following Lookout’s Code of Ethics. The Mental Health Worker carries out a variety of duties including oversight of harm reduction supplies throughout the Society and orienting and supporting staff to carry out their duties within the harm reduction framework. The position also carries out duties related to the operation of the needle distribution including intake and orienting guests, assisting guests with mental, developmental, and/or physical disabilities, education on harm reduction methods and distribution of harm reduction supplies. The Mental Health Worker deals with the public, other service agencies and professionals involved in the support of the guests and provides a variety of day-to-day physical, emotional, and social supports, advocacy, life skills assistance, information, resources, and demonstrations. This role will support guests to live successfully in the community by determining appropriate care to meet individual needs and situational requirements.
Understand and apply harm reduction techniques and implementing harm reduction practices that are approved and meet outlined legal and contractual requirements.
Implements and controls an inventory of harm reduction supplies, ordering approved supplies as required, utilizing free and low cost opportunities wherever possible.
Observes guests, identifies and assesses potential emergency situations, and develops short-term strategies to deal with such situations. Reports medical, behavioural, and other problems are required. Provides assistance to guests and non-guests in need through methods such as providing first aid, administering medication, as prescribed and in accordance with established health plans and policy; provides health related information to medical workers.
Identifies available social, economic, recreational, and educational services and resources in the community that will meet guests’ needs. Completes and maintains related records and documentation such as care plans, progress reports, statistics, and daily logs.
Conduct point of care assessment to ascertain if there is a potential for harmful consequences. Actions include using various communication strategies to reduce the tension or distract the client and/or contacting mental health teams, or other care providers, or calling 911 for professional assistance. Provides feedback to appropriate mental health or health care team members.
Sleeping during shifts is not permitted
Responsible for complying with and contributing to all aspects of health and safety program
Education, Training and Experience
Diploma in Community Social Service or a combination of related experience of two (2) years
Certificates in CPR, First Aid, and Food Safe
OR an equivalent combination of education, training and experience
Knowledge/familiarity with related resources such as: Mental Health, Income Assistance, Harm Reduction, Trauma Informed Practice, Addictions Support organizations, etc.
Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing
Suitability to work with disadvantaged and challenging adults in a diverse environment.
Internal applicants must apply through "Career Opportunities" on SAP. Lookout Housing and Health Society is committed to empowering people from different races, gender, age, religion, identities and unique experiences. We welcome everyone from diverse backgrounds and encourage them to apply in order to foster an inclusive environment.