Social Worker - Best Interest Assessor

VHA Home HealthCare (VHA) is one of the largest not-for-profit home care providers in Ontario. Our providers tell us: “Home care is where I can truly make a difference. There is such a sense of accomplishment from helping people live independently at home.” Our teams work together to provide high quality, client-centred care to those who need it most in their homes, schools, retirement homes and other community settings. Many of our team members manage their own schedules in the community and they say, “The freedom and flexibility can’t be beat.” Providers form meaningful bonds with the clients and families they serve over time and are supported by a diverse regional team and beneficial home office programs. As this role is being funded by the Canada Summer Jobs program, the following are eligibility requirements:

You are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident or person to whom refugee protection has been conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (foreign students are not eligible)

You have a valid Social Insurance Number at the start of employment and be legally entitled to work in Canada in accordance with relevant provincial or territorial legislation and regulations

To perform all intake and assessment functions as the first point of contact for individuals and referral sources on all Responsive Community Care programs. This includes receiving, assessing, and processing all requests for service from potential clients and referral sources. To provide clear and accurate information regarding service eligibility criteria, the full range of programs and support available, and offer timely referrals to other relevant community resources. This role is essential in ensuring adults, seniors, and families are connected to the most appropriate services based on their unique needs and locations, promoting access and equity. Participates in VHA services and quality initiatives. All activities are conducted within the policies, procedures, and standards of confidentiality of VHA.

Gather essential background information to develop an initial, needs-based care plan

Make timely referrals to internal programs and external community resources

Document all client contacts, assessments, and decisions accurately and promptly in the case management system

Maintain up-to-date knowledge of community resources, service pathways, and program criteria

Participate in team meetings, case reviews, and clinical supervision

Provide counsel and therapy to assist clients in developing skills to deal with and resolve their social and personal problems

Plan programs of assistance for clients including referral to agencies that provide financial assistance, legal aid, housing, medical treatment and other services

Act as advocates for client groups in the community, lobby for solutions to problems directly affecting client groups and develop prevention and intervention programs to meet community needs

Evaluate the effectiveness of counselling and social programs

Bachelor’s degree in a related field: BSW or Social Services combined with 1-3 years' experience.

• 1 to 3 years of experience as an intake worker or similar position for a social service agency.
• Knowledge of the social services available to adults with mental health issues, the disabled, seniors, child, and family.
• Excellent intake assessment, formulation, and case planning skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to client and family-centered care.
• Outstanding ability to engage with people over the telephone.
• Ability to handle a high volume of telephone intake calls and inquiries.
• Knowledge of community social and health services and established contacts with other agencies.
• Computer skills in word processing and data entry.
• Benefits and pension plan for permanent eligible employees

VHA is a leading learning organization so we can provide you with comprehensive orientation and training at the start and throughout your career

Employee and family assistance program

We champion inclusion and diversity in all parts of our organization and are strong believers that a diverse workforce is key to the ongoing and future success of VHA. Our online application should take about 5 to 10 minutes to complete.

In every role and at every level, we lead with purpose, build bonds that matter, and we’re passionate about providing spectacular care.