Social Worker

Reports To: Nursing Manager

Job Purpose:

The Social Worker plays a crucial role in connecting clients experiencing addiction, homelessness, unemployment, and challenging social situations with essential services to enhance their overall well-being. This position involves working collaboratively with the mobile harm reduction unit, as well as providing support to all Health Services programs, including Headstart, mental wellness, addictions, and primary care/public health clinical support.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of clients' social, emotional, and psychological needs. Establish and maintain trusting relationships to facilitate open communication.
• Collaborate with the mobile harm reduction team to connect clients with appropriate services and resources. Develop and implement individualized service plans to address specific challenges.
• Work actively on the mobile harm reduction unit, engaging with clients in various community settings. Provide on-site support, harm reduction strategies, and immediate assistance.
• Support health literacy by helping clients navigate and register for services such as My Alberta Health Records, Alberta Blue Cross Seniors Benefits, and Jordan’s Principle.
• Work with the Headstart program on preventative education and emotional well-being. Collaborate with mental wellness, addictions, and healthcare professionals to provide holistic clinical support.
• Advocate for client access to housing, employment, and healthcare. Engage with community organizations and stakeholders (e.g., PATH) to enhance support networks.
• Provide immediate support to clients facing challenges and collaborate with emergency services to ensure safety.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date client records, documenting interventions, progress, and outcomes on the established EMR (Accuro). Prepare regular reports for management on caseloads and program effectiveness.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:

• Must be a registered member in good standing with the ACSW (Alberta College of Social Workers).
• A related University Degree is preferred; or a two-year post-secondary diploma plus related work experience and training.
• Maturity and interest in community work with the ability to relate well to all age groups individually or in group settings.
• Ability to maintain the highest level of patient confidentiality and sign a mandatory oath of confidentiality with Cold Lake First Nations.
• Knowledge of Cold Lake First Nations culture, government, languages, and community dynamics.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills. The ability to speak Dene or Cree is considered a strong asset.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and Accuro EMR.

Working Conditions and/or Physical Requirements:

• Office environment. Monday to Thursday 8:30am – 4:30pm, Friday 8:30am – 2:00pm.
• Working hours can vary and may require a flexible schedule depending on type of assignment or work plan task.
• Evening and weekend work may be required to attend meetings, events, and community engagement sessions.