about the opportunity

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

The role will 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 cares in improving their parenting skills and creating a safer environment for their children. 

The Caseworker will hold a case load between 15 and 20 families depending on complexity.  

The Caseworker will provide quality services to clients through case management and assessing the risks, strengths and needs of the child and family. Planning and coordination of a variety of appropriate supported services. Meeting the individual child’s needs while monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of the services being delivered. 

Caseworker is to undertake activities to implement the case plans for 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.  

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

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. 

The Caseworker is supervised by a Team Leader.  

SCOPE OF ROLE:

The Caseworker will be responsible for the day to day provision of the CYF program.

DUTIES & KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

The CYF program is intended to prevent children from entering out of home care and to support families staying safe and at home together. This will require regular home visits, assessing risks, implementing the family goals and at times contact with Department of Community Justice (DCJ).

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

• Identify, manage and reduce child protection concerns
• Improve safety by regularly sighting the child and assessing for dangers
• Engage, empathise and develop professional relationships with families and their children
• Work intensively with the client and family to identify goals and develop strategies to improve their 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
• Empower the family with skills and knowledge to manage their future needs

Use group work strategies to:

• Deliver groups to families and their dependent children including information sessions
• 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 supervision and case review meetings, reporting on activities and working towards personal and professional development
• Participate in organisation planning, reviewing internal processes 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

SPECIFIC FUNCTIONS:

Work collaboratively with families in their own home, community centre or in group situations. Supportfamilies to achieve their goals using the following eight domains:

Economic, Family Relationships, Education and Skills, Safety, Home, Health (Physical and Mental Health), Social and Community, Empowerment.

SELECTION 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 working with Aboriginal families
6. Experience facilitating groups
7. Strong interpersonal skills and demonstrated experience in developing professional and interagency relationships
8. Proven ability to maintain accurate and thorough case notes and complete reporting requirements to the highest standard
9. Competence in use of keyboard and standard PC software
10. Drivers licence and access to a vehicle with comprehensive insurance
11. NSW Working with Children Check Clearance & Criminal Record Check

Information for Candidates

Terms and Conditions of Employment: 

Macarthur Family & Youth Services works under the Social, Community, Home Care & Disability Services Award 2010.

The post is subject to a probationary period in accordance with relevant industrial instruments during which your performance will be reviewed. During this probationary period, either party may terminate the contract by giving the appropriate notice.

Location: 

The main place of work will be at 16 King Street, Campbelltown. 

There will be variable sites of work dependent on service delivery needs.

next steps

If you wish to receive a copy of the Job Description, information package and selection criteria please contact the office on: 02 4620 4667.

Please click Apply Now to submit your application.