Job Summary:
In accordance with the Mission, Vision and Values, and strategic directions of Provincial Health Services Authority patient safety is a priority and a responsibility shared by everyone at PHSA, and as such, the requirement to continuously improve quality and safety is inherent in all aspects of this position. Working as a member of an interdisciplinary team within the Health and Wellness Department at Forensic Psychiatric Hospital (FPH), the Concurrent Disorders Peer Support Coordinator develops relationships based on respect and provides peer based individual support, group support and information sessions to individuals requiring specialized substance misuse and/or mental health services to enhance motivation for change, and organizes venues and materials for educational sessions. Performs word processing duties, assists with research and other special projects, maintains and compiles statistics, participates in committees, task groups, and/or corporate initiatives, and engages in and assists the Supervisor with on-going team planning, development, evaluation and quality improvement activities.

Duties/Accountabilities:

1. Provides individual peer support, facilitates group support meetings and conducts information sessions based on individual patient needs; provides peer-based support and guidance to patients in exploration of skill building, psychosocial recovery, empowerment and community integration.

2. Plans information sessions on a variety of topics such as peer services, consumer-run services, mental health and addictions and other resources. Consults with Supervisor and brings concerns to the attention of the Supervisor. Links patients with peer based community resources as appropriate, and follows protocols for obtaining assistance in an emergency/crisis situation.

3. Organizes venues and materials for support sessions by methods such as liaising with guest speakers and service providers; booking rooms; purchasing supplies, arranging for volunteers as required, sending out session notifications; creating posters and overheads/presentations. Arranges for the printing of materials and ensures that appropriate notices are posted.

4. Develops relationships based on respect with patients, encouraging informed decision making and helps to create a non-judgmental environment by sharing experiences and insight. Encourages and supports patients to become active and involved in their own health care.

5. Performs word processing duties such as drafting/revising program forms; updating program policies and procedures documentation; and preparing letters, memos, reports, posters, presentations, educational and funding proposals from rough draft, general instruction, and/or recording devices by methods such as utilizing word processing, spreadsheet, database and presentation software applications. Composes and signs general correspondence such as appointment confirmations, referrals, and information requests.

6. Participates in committees, task groups, and/or program initiatives by methods such as providing representation and input from a peer perspective, presenting relevant material, acting as advocate for the goals and objectives of the program, and promoting optimal support for patients within an interdisciplinary treatment team.

7. Assists with research and other special projects by collecting data, researching for additional material, liaising with a variety of personnel to obtain and distribute information, checking background information, entering data, making suggestions for computerized reporting and formatting objectives, preparing reports utilizing a variety of computerized databases and word-processing software, transferring information from one database/report to another as required, summarizing information, and printing documentation when requested.

8. Engages in and assists the Clinical Supervisor with on-going team planning, development, evaluation and quality improvement activities that facilitate team goal setting, problem solving, conflict resolution and collaboration by attending meetings and in-services, reviewing policies and procedures, providing input/recommendations to the Supervisor and/or other team members regarding efficiency of processes/procedures relating to work duties with a view to ensuring streamlined, effective and patient centred practices.

9. Maintains and compiles program statistics, correspondence, reports, and patient statistics by recording information, summarizing and/or entering information into computerized systems, and forwarding data to appropriate team members for review and action.

10. Performs regular security functions to maintain the safety and security of patients, staff, families and the general public at all times and takes immediate action to mitigate risks, as well as reporting all real and potential risk issues to the Clinical Supervisor, via Patient Safety Learning System (PSLS) reports and to clinical treatment teams (as appropriate).

11. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
Education, Training and Experience

Diploma in a Community Social Services program and two (2) years’ recent related experience, or a Social Services Worker Certificate and three (3) years’ recent related experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience. Personal experience with mental health and substance misuse issues and in accessing mental health services.

Skills and Abilities

• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to deal with others effectively.
• Physical ability to carry out the duties of the position.
• Ability to organize work.
• Ability to operate related equipment.