Brisbane Youth Service

Since 1977, Brisbane Youth Service (BYS) has worked to create new futures for vulnerable young people at risk of homelessness aged 12-25 years and their children.

The Youth Housing Specialist provides crisis, brief intervention and ongoing planned support to young people residing in public housing, community housing and private rentals, enabling tenancy sustainment. This position works collaboratively with other teams within BYS, key partners and the broader community to effectively respond to issues associated with housing and homelessness.

Employment Type & Hours:

Full-time - 76 hours per fortnight

Conditions:

• Level 4 - Social, Community, Home Care & Disabilities Services [SCHADS] Award 2010
• Generous salary packaging benefits with flexible work arrangements available
• 5.5 weeks annual leave per annum
• Great team culture

In addition to submitting a resume or CV applicants must address the selection criteria [below] in their cover letter to be considered for shortlisting.

Selection Criteria

1. An understanding of, and commitment to, BYS’s vision and objectives and the demonstrated experience working within a strengths-based and trauma informed practice framework
2. Demonstrated experience working holistically with vulnerable young people using solution focused crisis interventions and ongoing planned support
3. Demonstrated experience working collaboratively with social and community housing providers, and/or can demonstrate an understanding of the need for social and community housing for vulnerable youth
4. Understanding of the unique experiences and barriers faced by young people in gaining and sustaining tenancies
5. Strong organisational and planning skills and the ability to work independently and contribute positively within a team
6. Demonstrated effective communication skills, including strong interpersonal skills and writing skills and the ability to advocate on behalf of others
7. Demonstrated experience developing networks and collaborative relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including government and community service providers
8. Understanding of trauma informed practice and working with young people experiencing or fleeing domestic and family violence

Education, Qualifications, Requirements [Mandatory]

• A tertiary qualification in Social Work, Psychology, Social Sciences or comparable qualification OR substantial demonstrated experience in a related field
• Current Queensland driver’s license
• Working with Children Suitability Card [Blue Card] / willingness to obtain a Blue Card prior to commencement
• Evidence of vaccination, immunity, or medical exemption for the following preventable diseases prior to commencement: Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Varicella [Chicken Pox]; Pertussis [Whooping Cough]; and COVID-19
• Two relevant references, including most recent manager, if relevant
• National Police Check

Skills & Experience

• Ability to support young people with a focus on housing and tenancy sustainment
• Conducting assessments of a young person’s situation, support needs, risk and protective factors
• Experience working in a multi-disciplinary team and contributing to positive outcomes for young people
• Ability to develop networks and collaborative relationships with external providers
• Experience working in communities with diverse culture, gender, linguistic, and economic backgrounds
• Self-reflective and critical thinking skills

Personal Attributes

• Personal drive and integrity
• Consultative and collaborative working attitude
• Flexible, initiative, collaborative, inclusive, respectful, ethical, accountable
• Commitment to a learning culture and ongoing professional development

KEY RESULTS AREAS - Role and Responsibilities

Service Delivery:

• Complete thorough assessments and provide brief solution focussed interventions with young people to assess their needs and provide support
• Develop, monitor, and review client support plans and case notes in line with organisational policies and procedures
• Work collaboratively with other programs, both internal and external to support young people to achieve their goals and sustain tenancies
• Support young people with housing, legal, mental health, employment, education and training goals, and social activities
• Provide centre based, outreach and offsite support (including home visits) to young people being supported in public & community housing, also private rentals
• Transport groups and individuals to appointments, meetings, and any other activities as required
• Collect and maintain accurate client data, to contribute to monitoring, evaluation and reporting on program performance
• Participate in both quantitative and qualitative data collection to support BYS continual quality improvement
• Participate in staff training and development activities as required
• Participate in staff meetings and organisational planning to contribute to the monitoring and development of BYS programs and services
• Develop networks and collaborative relationships with internal and external providers
• Undertake risk assessments appropriate to the task

People, Culture, Safety:

• Contribute to a culture of respect, optimism, accountability and resilience in line with organisational values
• Attend supervision with Line Manager (at least monthly) to monitor the service and performance
• Participate as a collaborative and supportive team member, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the team and outcomes for young people
• Identify and participate in training and professional development opportunities
• Protect and promote the rights of children and young people, including making decisions compatible with the Human Rights Act 2019; and responding to and reporting suspicions and disclosures of abuse or harm
• Ensure a healthy and safe workplace for all by adhering to BYS Work Health and Safety Policy, Procedures and Practices
• Where agreed with the Manager supervise students

Administration:

• Implement administration relating to the service, including accurate data, client files, correspondence, and financial records
• Submit timesheets and leave requests accurately and on time on a fortnightly basis, in accordance with relevant legislation and organisational policy and procedure
• Implement relevant service standards to ensure quality service provision
• Undertake any other tasks as required

How to Apply

To apply, please attach your [1] Cover letter addressing the selection criteria along with your [2] CV through the recruitment service portal by clicking the "Apply Now" button.

To download the full position description, please visit: http://brisyouth.org/employment-opportunities/

If you would like to discuss this position further, please contact BYS directly on 3620 2400 or via [email protected] using the subject line: Youth Housing Specialist enquiry via EthicalJobs.

Interviews may take place progressively for successfully shortlisted applicants with an immediate start available.

The positions may be withdrawn earlier than the close date if applicants are successfully appointed prior.