Mental Health Support Worker

Mental Health Support Worker (Casual)

Job description
ABOUT US

Metro Community Housing Association is a non-profit, community-based agency that provides support to persons living with mental illness. MCHA operates residential settings throughout Halifax and Dartmouth under the umbrella of Department of Community Services and has grown to 15 locations following the opening of our newest home in 2021.

Established in 1974, MCHA manages small option homes, group homes, complex care homes, a community transition house, and residential care facility. We also offer supported apartment services to those participants living independently.

WHY MCHA

We hire and support amazing humans. MCHA promotes an environment that is inclusive, respectful, and supportive of diversity. Our agency offers a rewarding career in the human services field, where employees can develop meaningful relationships with participants and make a positive impact in their daily lives.

Our front-line staff partner with participants to encourage community engagement, enhance personal development, and provide both emotional and physical support in a home setting. We meet people where they’re at and strive to create safe spaces where participants can receive equitable treatment while building their autonomy. If you are someone who is patient, resilient, and has a positive attitude, you might be the right fit for our team.

POSITION OVERVIEW

We rely on our casual support staff to fill-in for shifts when regular employees are unavailable for work. Our homes are open 24/7, with various shift times depending on location. Our casuals do not have a set schedule and aren’t guaranteed a minimum number of hours, although there are typically ample shifts available given the size of our staff teams. Casuals can accept or decline shifts based on their availability and are contacted in advance and on short notice.

Our casuals are also eligible to apply for internal employment opportunities, including part-time or full-time unionized positions. Some of the benefits we offer unionized staff include health and dental coverage, Group RSPs, Employee & Family Assistance Program, paid vacation, and other Collective Agreement benefits. We also support continuous learning and offer valuable training opportunities.

Areas of Responsibility:

Assisting with all activities of daily living, including meal preparation, cleaning, and laundry (needs vary depending on location)
Maintaining accurate documentation and record keeping
Ensuring participants take medications as required
Providing a supportive environment and developing positive rapport with participants
Planning leisure and recreational activities
Responding appropriately in times of participant crisis/emergency
Providing personal care if/when needed
Becoming familiar with functioning of the home, in accordance with policies, procedures, and provincial regulations
Completing mandatory training
Qualifications:

High School diploma or equivalent
Post-secondary education in human services or related field (completed or in-progress)
Work or volunteer experience in human services sector
Understanding of mental health disorders and symptoms
A combination of education or experience may also be considered
Personal Attributes:

Strong verbal communication skills and the ability to create respectful dialogue with individuals who experience mental illness
Effective de-escalation and conflict resolution skills
Sound judgement and ability to make responsible decisions in time of participant crisis
Ability to connect with participants with compassion, while maintaining professional boundaries
Capable of working with minimal supervision, both individually and within a team
Professional written communication skills
Even-tempered, with solid problem-solving and motivational skills
Reliable, adaptable, and able to successfully manage stress
Portrays positive image when representing the agency
The rate of pay for this position is $14.50/hour. The rate for overnight sleep shifts is $136.00/ night. Other perks include casual dress code, free or discounted food, and free parking. Also, our casual Staff are currently eligible to receive a $25.00 incentive bonus for each shift worked until March 31, 2023.

Successful applicants must be able to provide a clear criminal record check including vulnerable sector search. Valid First Aid & CPR training, and proof of education is also required before beginning employment.

NOTE: In accordance with the “Nova Scotia COVID-19 Mandatory Vaccination Protocol in High-Risk Settings” order, applicants must provide proof of vaccination as a condition of employment.

We appreciate your interest in Metro Community Housing Association. Only those candidates selected to move forward in our recruitment process will be contacted. We are happy to make an offer of employment after a positive interview! (Any offer made at that time is conditional on receiving satisfactory references, clear criminal record check. etc.). We look forward to hearing from you!

Job Type: Casual

Salary: $14.50 per hour