CHILD & FAMILY SUPPORT WORKER

POSITION SUMMARY

Reporting to the Prevention Manager, the Child & Family Support Worker provides prevention-focused services and direct support to Tseshaht children, youth, and families both on and off reserve. This role is a key community-based resource, helping families navigate the child and family service systems, supporting cultural planning, and ensuring the safety and well-being of Tseshaht children.

The position works closely with Usma Child & Family Services, the Ministry of Children & Family Development, Court Services, and other community partners. The Child & Family Support Worker attends home visits and court hearings, provides follow-up support in the home, assists with transition and reunification planning, and facilitates referrals to appropriate services. Central to the role is building trust-based relationships and promoting family wellness in alignment with Tseshaht culture, traditions, and community goals.

PRIMARY/CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Performs all duties and responsibilities in accordance with Tseshaht and program specific policies, standards, practices and procedures, as directed by the Social Development and Health Services Manager.

Child & Family Support

• Serve as the primary contact and liaison for families, children, and Tseshaht leadership regarding child and family service matters.
• Work in collaboration with delegated social workers on intake, investigation, and family service cases, including attending home visits and family meetings.
• Provide direct prevention and wellness support to families in their homes and community to strengthen capacity and reduce the need for child removal.
• Assist children, youth, and families with referrals to culturally safe and accessible support services.
• Support the transition process for children and youth returning to parental care, including planning and resource connection.
• Attend court hearings to provide support to Tseshaht members, encourage connection with Duty Counsel, and debrief with the Native Court Worker.
• Collaborate with agencies in cultural planning, family service planning, and other processes to ensure the well-being and cultural identity of Tseshaht children in care.
• Maintain regular contact with families and extended networks to support connection to community and culture.
• Coordinate and deliver prevention-focused activities for children, youth, and families.

Administration and Compliance

• Maintain sound documentation and case notes in both electronic and paper files, ensuring confidentiality and adherence to policies and legislation.
• Participate in the development, review, and administration of program policies, procedures, and protocols.
• Remain current on legislation, regulations, and best practices related to child and family services.
• Complete reports and other administrative tasks as directed by the Social Development & Health Services Manager.
• Perform other related duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS

Training, Education and Experience

• Grade 12 or GED, plus post-secondary education in a related field (Family Support Certificate, Human Services Diploma, Child & Youth Care Diploma, or Social Work Diploma).
• 2–3 years of experience in child and family support or social services, preferably within a First Nation community environment.
• Demonstrated experience engaging First Nation children, youth, families, and communities.
• Experience preparing reports, service plans, and case documentation.

• Experience supporting prevention initiatives and working in collaboration with delegated agencies.

   

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong knowledge of Tseshaht community, culture, heritage, and future goals, with genuine respect for Tseshaht protocols and values.
• Solid understanding of child and family services policies, practices, and legislation as they apply to First Nations.
• Demonstrated ability to build trust-based relationships with families through empathy, consistency, and professionalism.
• Strong communication skills (verbal, written, and active listening).
• Proficiency in MS Office and comfort with maintaining confidential client records.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage collaboratively while also working independently with minimal supervision.
• Highly self-motivated and resilient, with a commitment to personal wellness in order to support others effectively.

Additional Requirements

• Valid Class 5 BC Driver’s License and reliable transportation.
• Satisfactory Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Check.