Caseworker

JOB PURPOSE:

This position delivers services through the Child Youth and Family program to families with children 0-17 years.

Provide child focused outreach family support to families who have dependent children. A holistic approach is to be taken in providing a supportive role when assisting parents in improving their parenting skills and creating a safer environment for their children.

The Caseworker will adhere to guidelines and provide quality services to clients through case management and support, assessing the strengths and needs of the child and family, including any risks, planning, and coordination of a variety of appropriate supported services. To meet the individual child’s needs while monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of the services being delivered.

Maintain professional development in relation to identified best practices, understanding and apply reporting requirements including Mandatory Reporting and other legislative requirements.

A function of the Caseworker is to undertake activities to implement the case plans for client and families including information and advice, support, advocacy, and referrals to relevant agencies or specialist services, and skills development to help the client and family achieve outcomes.

They will ensure that all reporting and case files (paper based and electronic) are of the highest standard, and data is protected to ensure client’s information is private and confidential.

The Caseworker will deliver services in accordance with organisational policies, procedures and Code of Conduct and in accordance with conditions identified in funding agreements.

DUTIES & KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Provide support to families and children to develop skills that will assist them to:

• Deal with immediate crisis
• Improve the health and wellbeing of children and young people
• Support parenthood
• Encourage individual family members to identify and achieve their goals
• Strengthen relationships within the family
• Provide links to appropriate support services
• Contribute to their communities

Use casework strategies to:

• Identify, manage and reduce child protection concerns
• Improve safety by regularly sighting the child and assessing for dangers
• Engage, empathize and develop professional relationships with families and their children
• Work intensively with the client and family to identify goals and develop strategies to improve situation
• Regularly meet with the client and family to review goals, overcome barriers and achieve outcomes in timeframes
• Use empathetic listening and problem solving skills to identify the needs and develop suitable plans of support
• Make referrals to other supports and services to meet the needs of families and their children

Use group work strategies to:

• Provide non-judgmental support to families and their dependent children through a variety of group work and information sessions
• To research, develop, deliver and review education and information groups
• To provide support to families that will encourage confidence and self-determination
• Keep appropriate records and collect statistics for reporting processes

Other responsibilities include:

• Carry out all administrative tasks required or as directed including e.g. case file management, data collection and data entry.
• Attend monthly supervision and case review meetings, reporting on activities and working towards personal and professional development
• Participate in organisation planning, reviewing internal processes and policies as required
• Participate as part of the service network, developing and maintaining links with other services, government agencies and schools, in order to enhance collaboration and avoid duplication
• Comply with statutory provisions and adhere to the policies and procedures of the organisation
• Other activities as directed by the Team Leaders or Director

Details

Download Position Description

Essential Criteria

1. Qualification in social work, social sciences or related discipline
2. Experience providing casework to children, young people and or families
3. Demonstrate your understanding of the issues affecting families, including homelessness, mental health, drug and alcohol and domestic violence
4. Experience working with families with child protection concerns
5. Experience facilitating groups
6. Strong interpersonal skills and demonstrated experience in developing professional and interagency relationships
7. Proven ability to maintain accurate and thorough case notes and complete reporting requirements to the highest standard
8. Competence in use of keyboard and standard PC software including excel
9. Current full drivers licence and access to a vehicle with comprehensive insurance
10. NSW Working with Children Check Clearance & Criminal Record Check

How to Apply

Your application will need to include:

1. Your current resume
2. Statement against each of the Selection Criteria outlined in this Job Description

To receive the information package and selection criteria please contact the administration team on: 02 4620 4667

If you have questions relating to the position please contact Jaya Kunjaboo on: 02 4620 4667

Please email your application to the Director at: veck.a@mfys.org.au

Applications close 4 December 2023.

Previous applicants need not apply.  

When progressing to interview you will be required to provide referees including your most recent Manager / Supervisor.

Macarthur Family and Youth Services