Peer Support Worker - Opioid Dependency and Enhanced Addiction

Opioid use is a serious problem in Alberta that requires a comprehensive, coordinated, and sustainable approach to prevent and reduce harms related to opioid dependence. Strategies have been implemented to address this problem, including opioid replacement medication and psychosocial support available to the public wanting to access treatment. The Opioid Dependency Program (ODP) provides oral medication Suboxone, Sublocade, methadone, and Kadian (SROM) and now, Narcotic Transition Services (NTS) provides medications such as Hydromorphone. This Peer Support Worker (PSW) position will work with various sites in the community and with various members of our multidisciplinary team to provide comprehensive support to people using opioids who are considering or requesting opioid replacement treatment. Working from a harm reduction and trauma-informed approach, the Peer Support Worker provides interventions and supports that complement the work of the clinicians and provide emotional and social support to individuals accessing services. The incumbent must have the ability to walk along with the client on their journey, empowering them to self-advocate and achieve their personal goals. Through their own lived experience (s) with addiction and/or mental illness (s), poverty (including homelessness) and experiences of recovery and resilience, the Peer Support Worker can authentically inspire hope and demonstrate the possibility of recovery. The incumbent must commit to strengthening team dynamics by actively facilitating team collaboration to enhance client health outcomes. This position has transitioned to Recovery Alberta effective September 1, 2024. By applying on this posting, if you are the successful candidate, you agree to and will become an employee of Recovery Alberta.

As a Peer Support Worker, you will provide interventions and supports that are complementary to the work of a multi-disciplinary outreach team. The team functions together to provide treatment, rehabilitation and support services for the diverse needs of clients navigating life impacting experiences. Through your own lived experience(s), and experiences of recovery and resilience, as the Peer Support Worker, you can authentically inspire hope to clients by sharing your story, offering mentorship and support; advocating for client needs; and supporting an integrated and resiliency/recovery-oriented health care and treatment experience.

Please refer to the Additional Required Qualifications.

Minimum 3 years' experience in Addiction and Mental Health. Physical requirements of the position include the ability to sit/stand and walk throughout the community. It is also a requirement that the incumbent is physically able to respond to behavioral/clinical emergency situations that may occur anywhere on site. Must be willing to be mobile and travel to sites throughout the inner city and larger Edmonton area. Must be able to work independently with a high degree of judgement and must be able to work effectively as part of an interprofessional team. Must be able to use their lived experience to support others in their journey. Knowledge of and ability to apply the principles of trauma-informed care in all interactions with clients. Demonstrated knowledge of the community and the ability to collaborate with community partners required. Non-violent crisis intervention and suicide prevention training. Must have experience in a community setting.

Strong communication and organizational skills. Calm, warm and engaging style with the ability to engage various populations. Knowledge of opioid dependency programs. Access to Connect Care.