Income Support Worker

Income Support Worker - Income Support ServicesOrganization: Belong OttawaJob Title: Income Support WorkerReports To: Manager of OperationsRole SummaryThe Income Support Worker provides direct support to individuals experiencing complex physical and mental health challenges homelessness (sheltered or unsheltered) or vulnerable housing. The primary function of this role is to assist clients in accessing the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) and other applicable income support programs increasing household income and supporting housing Income Support Worker engages collaboratively with clients medical professionals community agencies and internal teams to ensure equitable clientcentered and traumainformed service delivery. This role is essential to Belong Ottawas mission of fostering dignity wellness social inclusion and improved health outcomes for marginalized community AlignmentAll Belong Ottawa team members demonstrate and uphold these values in their daily work:Respect Treating all clients and colleagues with dignity consideration and Welcoming diverse experiences and perspectives without Providing safe inclusive empowering spaces for all who seek Ensuring every person feels valued and has a sense of Working collectively with partners and stakeholders to improve Approaching each individuals experience with understanding and Recognizing each persons contributions to the for Social Justice Advocating for equity rights and systemic ResponsibilitiesClient Intake Assessment & Case ManagementAccept and process referrals from shelters Housing First teams Ontario Works ODSP offices day programs CHCs and other community partners. Engage clients in a traumainformed clientcentered approach to determine eligibility for ODSP and other support programs. Identify healthrelated barriers in collaboration with clients and healthcare providers. Request and collect medical records and supporting documentation in compliance with the Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA). Schedule and coordinate assessments and medical appointments required to complete ODSP application forms. Ensure finalized applications and documentation are submitted accurately and in alignment with provincial Reporting & ComplianceMaintain timely accurate case notes and documentation in EMHware and HIFIS. Provide monthly statistics and reporting to the Manager of Income Support Services. Participate in regular case meetings to review complex cases identify systemic issues and ensure best practices. Refer clients to Community Legal Services and support the appeals process when & Community EngagementBuild strong working relationships with healthcare professionals housing workers and community agencies. Represent Belong Ottawas Day Programs in external settings with professionalism and integrity. Deliver training to medical personnel housing workers and frontline staff on effective completion of ODSP applications. Maintain a flexible adaptable approach to meet client and partner needs in a variety of settings including SupportContribute to creating safe and supportive spaces consistent with Belong Ottawas mission and positive rapport with frontline staff to strengthen collaboration and support coordinated service delivery. Collaborate effectively with internal teams to facilitate and respond to internal referrals in a timely professional manner. Participate in a rotational schedule to monitor and respond to general inquiries sent to the Income Support group Education and ExperienceUniversity education in Social Work or PsychologyRegistration with OCSWSSW or CPBAO is requiredMinimum of two years experience (or equivalent education/experience) supporting individuals experiencing homelessness or related barriers. Experience working with individuals facing mental health challenges addictions or complex and CompetenciesStrong interpersonal active listening and communication skills. Demonstrated crisis intervention and conflict resolution abilities. Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team. Strong problem-solving skills creativity and adaptability. Knowledge of harmreduction principles and traumainformed practice. Understanding of structural and social determinants of health including poverty housing instability stigma and systemic discrimination. Highly organized with strong documentation and timemanagement skills. Ability to maintain professionalism in stressful or unpredictable situations. English fluency in speaking and writing is required; French or additional languages are an Aid/CPR/AED is an assetNVCI is an assetASIST is an assetVulnerable Sector Police Record Check (required)Internal ContactsDay Program Teams Manager of OperationsOther caseworkers and internal support staffExternal ContactsHospitals physicians and medical practitioners Shelters Housing First agencies CHCs Ontario Works and ODSP offices Community Legal Services Other community partners and referral sourcesAdditional InformationThis position requires travel within the city to meet clients attend appointments or collaborate with community Conditions and BenefitsPay: $25.00-$29.000 hourlyWorking Hours: Full-Time - Monday to Friday 8:00AM-4:00PM (37.5 weekly hours)Extended Health and Dental BenefitsPension Plan