Harm Reduction Worker

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

About us

The Salvation Army (Salvos) 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, the Salvos are always there providing support, safety, community, and opportunity.

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 and include people of all cultures, languages, abilities, sexual orientations, gender identities, gender expressions and intersex status. We are committed to achieving a diverse workforce and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal 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 National Police Check.

We value Integrity, Compassion, Respect, Diversity, and Collaboration.