Safety and Wellbeing (SWB) Responder Volunteer
| Organization Details | |
|---|---|
| Organization Name: | Canadian Red Cross |
| Address: | 400 Cooper Street, Suite 8000, Ottawa, ON, K2P 2H8 Ottawa ON K2P 2H8 |
| Website: | http://www.redcross.ca |
| Organizational Description: | The Canadian Red Cross is part of the largest humanitarian network in the world, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. Our mission is to improve the lives of vulnerable people by mobilizing the power of humanity in Canada and around the world. Our network is vast, but our approach is simple. All Red Cross programs and activities are guided by the Fundamental Principles of Humanity, Impartiality, Neutrality, Independence, Voluntary service, Unity and Universality. |
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| Volunteer Opportunity Details | |
| Description of Duties: | Responsibility 1 -Provide basic psychosocial support and protection actions Activities: Assist in the set-up, running and/or closing of the SWB service or activities within a reception and information centre, shelter site, recovery centre and/or commercial lodging operation Support the implementation of the safe and supportive environments guidelines supporting different populations and incorporating cultural considerations Provide support to the operation on beneficiary protection issues Support complex cases through consultation and co-case management with ERT responders, provide emotional support and ensure appropriate referrals are made Support the implementation of outreach activities (e.g. community-awareness raising sessions, information-mobilization and establishment of support groups) Inform SWB Supervisor on any emerging needs that are observed within the beneficiary population (including psychosocial issues like grief and extreme stress reactions) Ensure accurate information about other supports and services is readily available for the team to provide relevant referrals to beneficiaries Complete necessary written or electronic documentation and follows record keeping procedures according to CRC standards and processes Punctually participate in and contribute to planned internal briefings/debriefings and meetings as requested through in-person, virtual and other means of participation Outside of response, support the ongoing integration of SWB programming within emergency management Responsibility 2 - Advocate for beneficiaries Activities: Advocate for beneficiaries to SWB Supervisor in matters of mental health and psychosocial support Assist SWB Supervisor in ensuring that beneficiaries are aware of the Feedback and Complaints mechanism and refer complaints to SWB Supervisor Ensure appropriate follow-up on beneficiary issues through access to databases used in response, such as EMIS Contributes to a healthy and safe working environment. Performs other duties, as required. |
| Skills Required: | EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE A degree or diploma in health, social service or other relevant discipline; 1-3 years experience in customer service, community engagement, social services or other relevant sector; or a suitable combination of education and experience Must possess training in Psychological First Aid or willingness to complete Background in psychosocial work, nursing, teaching, social work, youth engagement and public health is considered a strong asset Training in protection or violence prevention is a strong asset Previous deployment experience in a large-scale operation is a strong asset Experience in living or working in a cultural context other than their own is an asset Experience in an emergency environment, and/or knowledge of Red Cross role in disaster response, relief and recovery, an asset Experience working with children (0-15) and youth (15-25), an asset SKILLS AND ABILITIES Languages - Responders must be able to deliver services as appropriate in English or French. Fluency/working knowledge in an additional language is considered a strong asset Customer Service Skills - provide comfort and care, patience in dealing with upset clients, active listening to understanding needs, finding a solution and good communication so client understands services available and how to obtain them Communication skills - verbal and non-verbal cues, active listening, clearly able to explain self and confirm understanding from beneficiaries Flexibility - Adapt rapidly to changing circumstances in a fast-paced environment Ability to work well within a team - share information, be helpful, respectful, approachable, build strong relationships Dependable - Timely, takes initiative and ownership of work, completes tasks without being asked or with little supervision Remains calm during a crisis - Don't allow emotions to get in the way, don't take things personal, stay positive, respond decisively Public speaking - Communicate information to an audience in an effective manner in a presentation or facilitation context Cultural competency - to function effectively and respectfully within the context of the cultural beliefs, behaviors and needs presented by beneficiaries and their communities |
| Skills Gained/Related Careers: | |
| Age: | 18-30, 31-54, 55+ |
| Time Commitment: | Daytime, Evening, Weekend Be able to work non-traditional hours (daytime, evenings and weekends), be on-call and respond to emergency/disaster related requests |
| Location of volunteer opportunity: | Winnipeg |
| Does opportunity require a criminal record check? | Yes Will cost be reimbursed? Yes |
| Does opportunity require a child abuse registry check? | Yes Will cost be reimbursed? Yes |
| Opportunity is available to candidates that: | Are fulfilling volunteer hours for credit Speaks French |
| Organization will provide: | A letter of reference Supervision Training/Orientation |
| How to Apply: |
Online: www.redcross.ca/volunteer/apply-now/safety-and-wellbeing-swb-responder-volunteer |
| Closing Date: | Apr 15, 2020 |
