Forensic Caseworker

Job Title: Forensic Caseworker

Company: John Howard Society of Victoria

Location: Victoria, BC

Job Type: Permanent, Full-time

Salary: $24.80 - $27.90 per hour

Benefits: Dental care, Disability insurance, Employee assistance program, Extended health care, Life insurance, Paid time off, RRSP match

About the organization:

The John Howard Society of Victoria is a dynamic, innovative social service organization that strives to create safe, healthy, and inclusive communities for all. Our goal is to help individuals achieve greater independence by providing support with housing, life-skills, education, employment, and community-based services.

At John Howard Society of Victoria, we come from various backgrounds and share a common goal of wanting to make things better in our community, for our community. We believe in creating a dynamic work environment that adapts to your needs.

What We Offer:

• Competitive Benefits: Enjoy paid vacation, sick and personal time, health and dental plans, long-term disability, critical illness and a registered pension plan / RRSP
• Supportive Environment: Our Employee Assistance Program and professional development opportunities are designed to help you succeed both personally and professionally. We invest in our employees' growth through training programs, workshops, and mentorship opportunities.
• Engaging Culture: Be part of a friendly team that values your input! With numerous employee committees, you can make your voice heard and contribute to meaningful change for our clients and our community.
• Employee Engagement: We often organize team and social gatherings to strengthen relationships and foster camaraderie to create a supportive network among colleagues.
• Impactful Work: Employees at JHS Victoria are driven by a shared mission to make a positive difference in the community. Engaging in meaningful work enhances job satisfaction and connects team members to a greater purpose.
  
  

Our Vision, Mission, Goals, and Values

• Our Vision: A safe, healthy, and inclusive community for all
• Our Mission: We contribute to a safer, stronger and more sustainable communities by supporting people to achieve greater independence
• Our Goals:
• Service Excellence: Improve the quality of life of the people we service through more relevant, accessible and sustainable services.
• Organizational Sustainability: Realize a resilient operational and governance model that supports JHSV to consistently serve the end-to-end client journey.
• Capacity: Increase our capacity to work effectively and efficiently as a team.
• Our Values:
• Our Service Commitments (How we provide services to clients) – Dignity, Advocacy, Empowerment
• Team Values (How we work together) – Collaboration, Accountability, Resiliency
  

About the Role:

We are seeking a highly motivated and organized Forensic Caseworker responsible for monitoring and supporting the residents of the John Howard Society. They will ensure the safety and well-being of residents and maintain effective communication and service delivery.

Responsibilities:

• Administration
• Answer phones, greet the public and visitors.
• Access and maintain documentation on SharePoint and Office programs.
• Attend staff meetings as required.
• Keep abreast of new developments relating to the Correctional Service of Canada and the Provincial Health Services Authority.
• Undertake special assignments as required by the Residential Manager and Program Coordinator.
• Record and maintain detailed and accurate logs on the Case Administration Management System (CAMS).
• Prepare and maintain Medical Access sheets for all residents.
• Initiate contact with Victoria Forensic Clinic and Forensic Psychiatric Hospital as required.
• Write and submit monthly client summary reports.
• Attend staff and case management meetings as required.
• House Management
• Conduct daily rounds and bed checks at irregular intervals.
• Ensure office and house is clean and organized and not left unattended by staff.
• Advise the Manager of concerns regarding House management or residents, including infractions of House rules or policies.
• Client Support
• Manage a case load of up to 6 residents on release from the Forensic Psychiatric Hospital.
• Develop and participate in structured daily activities in the community with the Forensic residents.
• Establish positive communication with maintain rapport with residents.
• Exchange information related to resident concerns and direct residents to appropriate resources.
• Allow residents access to prescribed medication.
• Accompany and assist residents in purchasing weekly groceries and budgeting.
• Develop, implement and maintain a program plan suitable to the proposed client, and encourage the client's interest and participation.
  
  

Qualifications:

• Experience working with vulnerable populations, including those with mental health, addictions, and developmental barriers.
• Skills to understand the use of authority in supervision and intervene effectively in crises.
• A bachelor’s degree and/or professional designation, with a minimum of 2 years of applicable or relevant transferable past work experience
• Knowledge of community resources
  
  

Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to understand the dynamics of offender’s behavior and assess their needs and risks, managing it as part of the case management process
• Criminal Record Check
• Vulnerable Persons Check
• Correctional Services of Canada Enhanced Security Check
• Emergency First Aid
• Class 5 driver’s license
  
  

Competencies:

• Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication abilities to convey information clearly and effectively to residents, colleagues, and external agencies.
• Crisis Intervention: Proficient in assessing situations and applying appropriate interventions to stabilize crises involving residents.
• Case Management: Demonstrated ability to manage a caseload, develop individualized plans, and monitor resident progress towards goals.
• Knowledge of Community Resources: Familiarity with local services and resources available to support residents in their reintegration and overall well-being.
• Organizational Skills: Excellent time management and organizational skills to maintain accurate records and manage multiple responsibilities effectively.
• Understanding of Mental Health and Addictions: Solid knowledge of mental health issues, addictions, and developmental barriers, and their impact on individuals.
• Team Collaboration: Ability to work collaboratively within a team, sharing insights and support to enhance service delivery.
• Cultural Competence: Awareness and sensitivity to the diverse backgrounds of residents, ensuring inclusive support tailored to individual needs.
  
  

Personal Characteristics:

• Empathy: Demonstrates compassion and understanding towards residents, fostering a supportive and trusting environment.
• Integrity: Exhibits honesty and ethical behavior in all interactions, maintaining confidentiality and respect for residents' privacy.
• Resilience: Maintains a positive attitude and strong work ethic in the face of challenges, adapting to changing circumstances as needed.
• Motivation: Self-driven and committed to the mission of supporting individuals in achieving greater independence and community integration.
• Patience: Displays patience and understanding when working with residents, recognizing that progress may take time and effort.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to think critically and creatively to identify solutions to challenges faced by residents.
• Flexibility: Willingness to adapt to the dynamic needs of the organization and its residents, including varying schedules and responsibilities.
• Advocacy Skills: Strong commitment to advocating for the rights and needs of residents, ensuring they have access to necessary resources and support.
  
  

Diversity and Inclusion at JHS Victoria:

At the John Howard Society of Victoria, we proudly embrace the rich diversity of the communities we serve, and we’re excited to invite applicants from all backgrounds to join our team! We warmly welcome candidates who are racialized persons or persons of color, Indigenous Peoples, women, individuals with disabilities, those who identify as 2SLGBTQ+, and anyone who brings unique perspectives and ideas to the table.

We understand that everyone’s journey is different, and we are committed to providing the support needed to ensure equal opportunities for success throughout the hiring process. If you require any accommodations during your interview, please don’t hesitate to let us know. We’re here to help!

How to Apply:

If you’re passionate about making a positive impact in people’s lives and meet the qualifications for this role, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your application through our portal. We’ll be reviewing applications on an ongoing basis until the position is filled, so don’t wait—apply today and take the next step in your journey with us!