About Us
Domestic Abuse Services Oxford supports individuals and families in accessing resources and services that enhance safety, well-being, and empowerment. We provide trauma-informed, person-centered support to women, children, and families while remaining committed to ending gender-based violence and helping families make the transition to lives free from violence and abuse.
Position Summary
Reporting to the Manager of Program Operations, the Family Support Worker provides trauma-informed counselling, advocacy, education, and support services to children, adolescents, and women who have experienced domestic violence, abuse, and/or homelessness. This role promotes safety, emotional well-being, healthy development, life skills, and empowerment through individual support, group programming, and community advocacy.
Key Responsibilities
Direct Service Delivery
- Provide individual and group counselling to children, adolescents, and women.
- Conduct client assessments to identify needs and determine appropriate supports and referrals.
- Develop and implement safety plans and complete risk assessments.
- Support children, youth, and women in developing coping strategies, resilience, and life skills.
- Serve as a positive role model and provide emotional support to service users.
Program Development and Facilitation
- Plan, coordinate, and facilitate recreational, educational, and life-skills programming.
- Develop and deliver parenting education and support programs for mothers.
- Provide education regarding the impact of domestic violence on children and adolescents.
- Research, evaluate, and enhance programs and services to meet emerging client needs.
- Select and manage program materials and supplies within approved budgets.
Advocacy and Community Support
- Advocate on behalf of service users to access community resources and services.
- Support clients in navigating child welfare, legal, educational, healthcare, housing, and other community systems.
- Promote awareness of available supports and services within the community.
Documentation and Administration
- Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential client records and case notes within the agency database (WISH).
- Complete assessments, reports, and documentation in accordance with agency standards and legislative requirements.
- Adhere to agency policies, procedures, ethical guidelines, and professional standards.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree in Child and Youth Work, Social Service Work, Social Work, or a related field; OR
- Assaulted Women’s and Children’s Counsellor/Advocate Diploma, or a related degree/diploma in social and human services.
- Minimum two (2) years of experience working within a community-based organization supporting vulnerable and marginalized populations.
- Experience supporting individuals affected by domestic violence, abuse, homelessness, or trauma is strongly preferred.
- Experience in a 24/7 residential support environment is considered an asset.
- Demonstrated ability to work from Trauma-Informed, Anti-Racist/Anti-Oppressive, Harm Reduction, and Person-Centered practices.
- Strong understanding of privacy, confidentiality, information sharing, and relevant legislation.
- Ability to facilitate groups, manage challenging situations, and implement program guidelines.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with service users, colleagues, managers, and community partners.
- Knowledge of community resources, programs, and services available to women, children, and families.
- Valid Standard First Aid and CPR
- Successful Criminal Reference Check, including Vulnerable Sector Screening.
- Valid driver's license, reliable vehicle, and valid automobile insurance coverage.
Why Join Our Team?
- Make a meaningful impact in the lives of women, children, and families.
- Work within a collaborative, supportive, and values-driven organization.
- Contribute to ending gender-based violence and promoting safety and empowerment in our community.
- Opportunities for professional growth and ongoing learning.
Domestic Abuse Services Oxford promotes the principles of anti-oppression/anti-racism and adheres to the tenets of the Ontario Human Rights Code. DASO provides accommodation during all parts of the hiring process, upon request, to applicants with disabilities. Please advise if you require any accommodation.
Qualified and interested applications should email a resume and appropriately detailed cover letter to Crystal Doyle, Human Resources Administrator, Domestic Abuse Services Oxford, at [email protected].
Pay: $23.36 per hour
Work Location: In person
