Harm Reduction Worker
About this role
Number of Positions Available:
ABOUT US
The Salvation Army is a Christian movement and one of Australia's largest and most-loved charities. We believe in doing good that transforms lives and futures for the better. It is this belief which drives us to find new ways and places where we can make a difference. From times of personal crisis to moments of national grief, we are always here — providing support, safety, community, and opportunity.
Why this role matters
The Salvation Army (Salvos) is one of Australia’s largest providers of alcohol and other drug (AOD) programs including withdrawal management, residential and non-residential rehabilitation, and harm reduction programs. Salvos services go beyond addressing the core issues and challenges associated with problematic substance abuse and provide participants a place of hope, compassion, and dignity to recover safely.
About the role
As a Harm Reduction Worker, this is your opportunity to provide assertive outreach and harm reduction services to individuals and groups. Improving health, wellbeing and inclusion amongst People Who Use Drugs (PWUD).
Reporting to the Harm Reduction Program Manager, we have two permanent part-time vacancies, 15.2 hours per week, located in St Kilda, VIC. You will work on a set roster including weekday and weekend shifts.
Conditions
Compensation is in accordance with Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services (SCHADS) Award - Level 4.
How you will make an impact
- Work collaboratively with the team to ensure services align with The Salvation Army’s alcohol and other drug model of care, policies and procedures, harm reduction principles, the social model of health, and trauma informed practice
- Provide sterile injecting equipment, naloxone, and overdose education to clients accessing the outreach service
- Ensure clients receive integrated, holistic, and culturally sensitive responses to their needs, including identifying unmet needs and providing referrals and information for mental health, housing, and other relevant services
- Support the Community Health Nurse in the delivery of primary health care within the outreach setting
- Develop and maintain strong working relationships with police, ambulance, and other professionals to promote client safety and wellbeing
What you will bring
- Certificate IV (or equivalent) in Alcohol and Other Drugs, or have completed the four core AOD competencies, or willingness to obtain within a set timeframe
- A high level of understanding of the health and harm reduction needs of people who use alcohol and other drugs, particularly those experiencing vulnerability due to homelessness, street-based sex work, stigma, discrimination, intoxication, or limited access to health and community services
- A working knowledge of the relationship between mental health and AOD issues
- A current VIC Employee Working with Children’s Check
- A current VIC Drivers Licence (desirable)
What we offer
The Salvos offer eligible employee's a well-balanced package of meaningful benefits including:
- Salary packaging up to $15,900 tax free + $2,650 meal entertainment benefit
- Generous Paid Parental leave for primary (12 weeks) & secondary carers, Purchased Leave Scheme (up to 8 weeks) and 5 days paid leave per year to experience working in other TSA programs or activities
- Access to EAP and health & wellness initiatives incl Fitness Passport
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander supports such as: Burra Burra Network (pastoral care network), Cultural Events, Sorry Business and Ceremonial Leave (up to 10 days)
- Ongoing training and development opportunities that enhance on the job skills and proficiency
- Rewarding and fulfilling purpose driven careers that have positive and sustainable / social impacts
How to apply
If you’re passionate about making a difference and ready to join a team dedicated to creating positive change, please submit your resume and cover letter detailing your alignment with the requirements of the role. Together we can build a brighter future.
Applications will close as soon as a suitable candidate is secured.
The Salvation Army is an Equal Opportunity Employer who provides an inclusive work environment and embraces the diverse talent of its people. We value people of all cultures, languages, capacities, sexual orientations, gender identities and/or expressions. We are committed to achieving a diverse workforce and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islander people.
The Salvation Army is a child safe organisation and is committed to protecting children and young people from harm. All child facing roles will require the successful completion of a Working with Children Check. Applicants for all roles require a mandatory Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check.
We value Integrity, Compassion, Respect, Diversity, and Collaboration
Company at a glance
The Salvation Army is the nation's largest direct provider of social services.
Annually, we help millions overcome poverty, addiction, and spiritual and economic hardships by preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ and meeting human needs in His name without discrimination in nearly every zip code.
By providing food, shelter, eviction prevention assistance, emergency disaster relief, rehabilitation, after-school and summer youth programs, spiritual enrichment, and more, The Salvation Army is doing the most good at nearly 7,000 centers of operation around the country.
The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.
Top Benefits
- Salary packaging
- Meal entertainment benefit
- Paid parental leave
- Purchased leave scheme
- Employee assistance program
- Health and wellness initiatives
- Fitness passport
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander supports
- Ceremonial leave
- Ongoing training and development
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