• Linking Families based at Fairfield Heights

We are seeking an experienced and qualified Family Support Worker who will work collaboratively within the Karitane Linking Families team.

The Linking Families program provides safe, effective, evidence-based quality care consistent with Karitane’s mission, philosophy and standards of care, and adhere to the Professional Code of Conduct, NSW Health.

• DEPARTMENT: Linking Families
• CLASSIFICATION: Health Education Officer - Non-Graduate / Graduate
• HOURS: 3 days / 24 hours per week, fixed term till June 2025
• VACCINATION CATEGORY: A
• OPERATIONAL BASE: Fairfield Heights
• RESPONSIBLE TO: NSW Community Programs Manager

PURPOSE

Effective early intervention services aim to strengthen communities by supporting families experiencing or at risk of vulnerability, by providing more inclusive, supportive, safe, and empowering services. The Family Support Worker will work collaboratively within the Karitane Linking Families team to meet the following TEI (Targeted Early Intervention) objectives and practice principles.

SUMMARY ROLE AND FUNCTION

The Linking Families program provides safe, effective, evidence-based quality care consistent with Karitane’s mission, philosophy and standards of care, and adhere to the Professional Code of Conduct, NSW Health.

The key elements of the program include:

• Supporting families with parenting roles in both group and individual settings.
• Providing evidenced based parenting information.
• Encouraging positive parent-child relationships.
• Facilitation of supported playgroups including but not limited to “Small Talk” and other evidenced based programs.
• Facilitating groups that create a welcoming and inclusive environment.
• Building and maintaining strong relationships and referral pathways with other community organisations.
• Reducing isolation for families and linking families to supports in their local community.
• Ensuring care is child centred with the needs and rights of the child are always protected.

KEY SELECTION CRITERIA

Each criteria must be addressed in your cover letter:

• Early Childhood, Health Education, Community Services qualification or other demonstrated experience and qualifications.
• Demonstrated experience working with families in short term case management using a trauma-informed service framework and strengths-based practice approach.
• Demonstrated experience in community engagement and knowledge of community organisations and stakeholder engagement.
• Demonstrated understanding of children’s development (0-5 years).
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Demonstrated highly developed interpersonal and communication skills both written and verbal.
• Experience working with families from diverse backgrounds including CALD, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, socially or geographically isolated families.
• Demonstrated computer skills using Microsoft Office applications and databases.
• Experience in leading and facilitating groups e.g., playgroups.
• Current NSW Class C drivers licence.

Case Management – A key component of this role:-

Duties

To work in partnership with referred families in all Linking Family programs by providing support, goal setting and skill development to promote optimal health and wellbeing for the family. Support and care are provided within the framework of Karitane Policies & Procedures, Department of Communities and Justice Funding Agreements and Families NSW Strategy.

To support referred families in all Linking Family programs by providing practical parenting advice, referral, support and social contact to promote optimal health and well being for the family.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Fixed Term employment until 30 June 2025 as per relevant award in accordance with Named NSW (Non-Declared Affiliated Health Organisations Health Employees Staff Agreement (with possible extension dependent on recurrent Department of Communities and Justice funding).

The majority of Karitane’s services close for approximately two weeks over the Christmas/New Year period, during which time employees are required to take leave.

Karitane supports a smoke free environment including grounds, buildings, and vehicles. Applicants will have a commitment to EEO & WH&S Policies, ethical practice, and the principles of cultural diversity.

Relevant Criminal History, Working with Children’s Check, Apprehended Violence Orders, and prior employment checks, including relevant disciplinary proceedings, will be conducted on recommended applicants.

A full position description detailing this role and what Karitane is all about is in detail and can be viewed on the Karitane website under Employment Opportunities: www.karitane.com.au

Benefits of a career at Karitane

• Dynamic team
• Innovative organisation
• That we are an accredited Family-friendly workplace
• Professional development, support, and mentoring
• Opportunity to salary package up to $16,050 tax free (as not-for-profit and registered charity)
• Additional leave accrued day off once a month where applicable.
• Encouraged to achieve your full potential.
• Respected and recognised.
• Flexible work practices where applicable and appropriate
• Meaningful work – that makes a difference.

Please note: If you work in the NSW Public Health system and other Affiliated Health Organisations your accruals of leave and service can be transferred across to Karitane.

For noting: Previous applicants need not reapply

Enquiries and applications (each of the selection criteria must be addressed in you cover letter) via email should be addressed to:

Lee Bratel - NSW Community Programs Manager

Email: [email protected] using the subject line: Family Support Worker enquiry via EthicalJobs

Mobile: 0407 270 643 / Mon - Thurs