Indigenous Social Worker, Virtual Psychiatry Unit; VPU

Position: Indigenous Social Worker, Virtual Psychiatry Unit (VPU)

Detailed Overview

Reporting clinically to the Social Work Clinical Practice Leader, and reporting administratively to the Coordinator or designate, the Indigenous Social Worker, VPU participates as a member of a multi-disciplinary team in a variety of community and hospital settings. Within the context of an Indigenous health care perspective, provides culturally appropriate counselling and intermediary services to First Nations, Métis and Inuit clients.

Plans, organizes, and evaluates clinical and psychosocial health care needs and services for Indigenous clients involving assessments, health teaching to clients, support, consultation, liaison, and referral to appropriate services. The Indigenous Social Worker, VPU collaborates with other programs across Fraser Health as well as Indigenous partner organizations such as First Nations Health Authority and Métis Nation BC. This position will facilitate connections between Indigenous clients and service providers to enhance access to Fraser Health and traditional wellness services, with a culturally appropriate approach.

May provide care to patients through a combination of telephone, virtual video/audio conference and/or remote technology to patients in their homes, in the community including outreach, and virtually. Responsibilities As a member of a multi-disciplinary team provides social work services for clients, families, service providers, and community agencies to enhance service delivery through consultation, development of a care plan and forwarding necessary information to appropriate community services/agencies.

Clarifies client and family expectations and acts as a client advocate. Conducts client assessments and screenings that include evaluation of emotional, physical, mental and spiritual health as well as social determinants of health using information from all available sources. Participates in a multi-disciplinary team, bridging Indigenous Health and Mental Health and Substance Use, referring Indigenous clients to appropriate services, as eligible.

Communicates with and obtains assistance from appropriate community agencies and FHA programs to ensure the best possible care for clients and families after discharge from hospital. May provide care to patients through a combination of telephone, virtual video/audio conference and/or remote technology to patients in their homes, in the community including outreach, and virtually when required in order to assess and/or engage with patients within their own environment and community.

Provides education and promotes health promotion initiatives/services to individuals, families, and Indigenous communities to increase knowledge, capacity and resources to maintain holistic wellness. Encourages informed decision-making, personal growth and learning, empowering the client to improve their quality of life. Acts as the point of contact to assist with health system navigation and liaises with programs and services across FHA as well as community partners.

Collegially shares information with colleagues for the purpose of enhancing knowledge of Indigenous cultures, contemporary social issues and health beliefs. Provides information on social and health services available in the community for Indigenous people. Participates in committees that integrate Indigenous Health with hospital and community programs by providing input and addressing Indigenous Health issues. Provides information, interpretation and guidance to general public, agencies, Boards, etc.

on Acts and Regulations applicable to social work practices and functions. Reviews and adapts relevant information material. Participates in professional development activities to keep up to date with current trends and research. Assists with orientation of new staff, students, and other health care professionals. Maintains knowledge of community social work services and resources. Maintains related records, documentation and statistics. Prepares reports as required, and in accordance with established standards and procedures.

Performs other related duties as assigned. Qualifications Education, Training, and

Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in…