Search Homelessness Services Association of BC

Job Description / Duties

Key Duties & Responsibilities
• Provides trauma-informed, harm reduction, and integrated linkage to internal and external support services to survivors of sexual violence and assaults
• Advocates, liaises, and coordinates service access with multiple community partners to support the coordination of services
• Supports assessment of needs and provides case management support to link to internal and external supports including crises counseling, victim services, police, medical care, and other community-based providers as needed
• Devises a service plan with women, establishes goals to meet determined needs, while providing coordination of service through a culturally informed lens
• Provides accompaniment as needed including initial police interviews, medical services for sexual assault services, etc.
• Actively liaises with community service agencies, including other sexual assault response programs, to develop relationships and maintain up-to-date information about available resources
• Facilitates information sessions and support groups for women who have experienced sexual violence
• Facilitates workshops and training with DEWC staff and other service providers to create awareness and visibility around sexual violence and assault
• Participates in community networking, advisory committees, and professional development training as appropriate
• Work collaboratively with other DEWC programs and services, providing support and coverage were needed, including the Drop In and/or Shelter
• Other related duties not specified that may be assigned from time to time

Qualifications / Required Skills

Required Qualifications:
• Two years of related experience, preferably working with marginalized women
• Formal trauma informed crises counseling training required
• Ability to work from a strong feminist analysis and within an intersectional, anti-oppression framework
• High degree of self-awareness and cultural competence, including the ability to adapt approaches to the cultural needs and practices of each woman
• Understanding of and strict adherence to confidentiality, policies, regulations, and procedures.
• Knowledge of relevant systems, institutions, and supports for women, including gaps and barriers to services and resources
• Must have a strong working knowledge and analysis of the issues impacting women in the downtown eastside, including gender-based violence, mental health, homelessness, and addictions with an understanding of trauma-informed care responses.
• Strong conflict resolution skills and practice
• Strong computer experience and skills including using Microsoft 365 products and database management,
• Demonstrated crises intervention training and experience
• Excellent communication skills are required, including the ability to work in a respectful and cooperative manner with co-workers, volunteers, and center members.
• Ability to work within a chaotic environment and with a diverse community of women
• A First Aid certificate and NVCI is required
• Candidate must undergo a criminal record check
• Women with addiction issues need to be at least 2 years clean and sober
• Hourly position that requires some work outside of normal business hours to undertake position responsibilities, meet deadlines, and ensure delivery of high-quality programs and services

Position reports to: Specialized Services Manager

Contact Information

careers@dewc.ca

Employer Profile

The Downtown Eastside Women’s Centre (DEWC) exists to support and empower women and children, living in extreme poverty in the Downtown Eastside of Vancouver, who are particularly vulnerable to violence, exploitation, injustice, and injury. Through low barrier Drop-In Centers and Emergency Shelters, DEWC provides basic need services, programs, and specialized support to over 700 women and children daily to help them survive the conditions that surround them.