Peer Advocate

Description

JOB SUMMARY:Within the context of a patient/client and family-centred framework and continuum-based care model and in accordance with established standards of professional practice and the vision, values and policies of the organization, the Peer Advocate works as a member of community-based team to provide peer-based individual and group support and information sessions to a designated client population/community. Provides advocacy for client friendly services free of discrimination and barriers and supports clients and their support network with locating health, social and legal services for the designated client population/community. Develops relationships based on respect, provides outreach services and organizes venues and materials for educational sessions. Assists with coordinating peer support program, performs word processing duties, assists with research and other special projects, maintains and compiles statistics, participates in committees, task groups, and/or corporate initiatives and engages in and assists the Coordinator, Team Lead, Manager with on-going team planning, development, evaluation and quality improvement activities.This work is framed within VCH’s commitments to our pillars of Indigenous Cultural Safety, Anti-Racism, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, and Planetary Health.QUALIFICATIONS:Education & Experience Diploma in a Community Social Services and two (2) years’ recent related experience advocating and/or providing support to the designated client population/community, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience. Completion of a recognized Peer Support Training Program. A valid BC driver's license may be required as local travel may require the use of a vehicle. Pursuant to Section 41 of the British Columbia Human Rights Code, preference will be given to individuals identifying as a person with lived/living experience with mental health and/or substance use.Knowledge, Skills & AbilitiesDemonstrated knowledge of the values and competencies of peer work for the designated client population/community.Demonstrated knowledge of peer-to-client self-disclosure. Knowledge of health concerns for the designated client population/community.Knowledge of the substance use recovery and harm reduction system in British Columbia.Ability to establish and maintain rapport with a diverse range of community members, volunteers, and with health, social and legal service providers for the designated client population/community.Ability to communicate effectively/tactfully both verbally and in writing.Ability to organize and prioritize.Ability to work under the pressure of interruptions and adapt to changes.Knowledge of Indigenous Cultural Safety. Knowledge of traditional healing practices Demonstrated knowledge of the principles of harm reduction in a health care setting.Demonstrated knowledge of LGBTQ2S+ services and programs in the community.Demonstrated knowledge of trauma-informed practice.Demonstrated ability to promote Indigenous Cultural Safety.Demonstrated ability to provide competent and culturally safe care in a variety of settings with diverse populations.Ability to problem solve and take initiative, ability to provide work direction.Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as a member of a interdisciplinary team.Skilled in conflict resolution, facilitation, and advocacy.Ability to compose business correspondence, ability to do basic mathematical calculations.Ability to operate related equipment including applicable software applications.Physical ability to perform the duties of the position.

 

About the Specialized Substance Use (SSU) Engage:

 

Specialized Substance Use (SSU) Engage is an interdisciplinary substance use transition team that provides low-barrier access to recovery-based supports for clients accessing care within Specialized Substance Use Services. SSU Engage offers short term support for clients navigating recovery across the substance use continuum, providing Access Central waitlist support, residential treatment application completion, and transition support between WDM, stabilization and treatment centers, and recovery community connection.

The hours of work including days off and work area may be subject to change consistent with operational requirements and the provision of the Collective Agreement and applicable statutes. Successful applicants may be required to complete a Criminal Records Review Check.

Details

At Vancouver Coastal Health, our vision of healthy lives in healthy communities inspires us and our values and pillars guide us. We support equitable practices, diverse teams and inclusive environments, which are vital to creating welcoming spaces where everyone can bring their whole selves to work and feel supported. We encourage applications from equity-deserving communities, including Indigenous Peoples and members of racialized groups, people with disabilities and people of all gender identities and expressions and sexual orientation.Vancouver Coastal Health is proud to be recognized as one of Canada’s Top 100 Employers, BC’s Top Employers, Canada’s Best Diversity Employers and Canada's Top Employers for Young People in 2026.Unless otherwise noted on the posting, internal job postings close at 8:00 AM Pacific Time on the listed Closing Date. Please submit your digital application via the Internal Career Portal prior to the Closing Date & Time.Nursing & LPN successful applicants will be notified by email.We regret that only short listed candidates will be acknowledged.This is an internal job posting for Vancouver Coastal Health employees only.