Relief Residential Support Worker

Women's Crisis Services of Waterloo Region; Kitchener; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A regional women's support organization is seeking Domestic Violence Workers to provide critical support to women and children in crisis. The role involves direct interaction, crisis management, and community advocacy, with a strong emphasis on feminist philosophy and anti-oppressive frameworks. Candidates must possess relevant educational qualifications and a commitment to supporting vulnerable groups.

Benefits

Supportive working environment

Professional development opportunities

Internal wellness programs

Qualifications

• Degree from a recognized college or university in Social Work or Psychology.
• Experience working in the Violence Against Women (VAW) sector.
• Ability to manage multiple demands effectively.

Responsibilities

• Provide crisis line support and safety planning.
• Facilitate emotional support through activities.
• Assist with community referrals and discharge planning.

Skills

Crisis de-escalation

Knowledge of abuse effects

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Time management

Education

BSW, MSW, or psychology degree

Tools

Computer software proficiency

Job description

Overview

Do you desire a community that is free from violence and abuse in any of its forms? Do you have a genuine passion to support women and children move beyond violence? Do you possess a feminist philosophy and have an understanding of an anti-oppressive framework? Then we just might have the opportunity for you!

Position

Domestic Violence Workers

Location: Kitchener (Anselma House) and Cambridge (Haven House)

Status: Casual (Day, evening, overnight and weekend shifts)

Hourly Wage: $26.06 per hour as outlined in the UNIFOR Local 302 Collective Agreement

Schedule and Requirements

Schedule

• Relief Residential Support Worker: Available for a minimum of 3 full shifts per week. Of these 3 full shifts, 2 shifts must be overnight, with 1 of those overnight shifts between Monday through Friday and 1 shift on Saturday or Sunday, and 1 day shift. Relief employees must submit availability to work at least 9 of the paid holidays per calendar year.

Responsibilities

• Support women and children to move beyond violence by providing crisis line support, safety planning, ongoing assessment, emotional support through one-to-one and group activities.
• Provide community referrals/information, discharge planning and advocacy.
• Support women to adapt to communal living and facilitate their transition to independence.
• Maintain a flexible schedule with availability in evenings and weekends.

Skills and Experience (Qualifications)

• BSW, MSW, or psychology degree from a recognized college or university
• SSW with related experience in the VAW sector
• Residential experience
• Experience in the VAW sector an asset
• Ability to de-escalate crisis situations and manage multiple demands of the role
• Knowledge of the effects of all types of abuse on women and children
• Feminist philosophy and understanding of an anti-racist and anti-oppressive framework
• Sound judgment and the ability to be decisive in crisis situations
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to multi-task
• Knowledge of the needs of diverse groups of women and children (e.g., ability, sexual orientation, gender identity, poverty, trauma survivors, mental health, addiction)
• Knowledge of conflict resolution, negotiation techniques, and ability to facilitate meetings and implement guidelines
• Knowledge of basic criminal and family law, the Child and Family Services Act, and related legal issues/resources
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills
• Proficient in computer software
• Valid driver’s license, valid insurance, and access to a reliable vehicle

Assets (Preferred)

• Experience in crisis intervention, trauma-informed care, harm reduction, advocacy, risk and ongoing assessments
• Experience working with interpreters
• Knowledge of and skills in accessing and utilizing appropriate community resources
• Valid First Aid/CPR-C and Naloxone training (training provided if required)
• Ability to speak two or more languages

General Employment Eligibility Requirements

• Vulnerable Sector Police Record Check

About the Organization

Women’s Crisis Services of Waterloo Region (WCSWR) provides emergency shelter to women and children fleeing abusive relationships. We operate two shelters: Anselma House in Kitchener and Haven House in Cambridge. Our facilities operate on a 24/7 basis, and we pride ourselves in being more than shelter. We also offer a robust region-wide outreach support program which supports families who are experiencing or have experienced domestic violence. We believe that everyone deserves to live a life free from abuse.

Culture and Benefits

• A full team of staff passionate about the cause with strong values alignment
• A culture of encouragement and celebration
• Leaders committed to continuous improvement and listening to feedback
• A supportive working environment focused on learning and growth
• Internal programs for staff wellness, engagement and development

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and cover letter highlighting why you are excited about this opportunity to [e-mail].

Equal Opportunity

Women’s Crisis Services of Waterloo Region welcomes and encourages applications from people who identify as male, Black, Indigenous, 2SLGBTQ+, and all equity-seeking community members. We are committed to a barrier-free recruitment process: if you are selected for an interview please advise if you need accommodation for a disability and we will make every effort to accommodate.