Indigenous Cultural Helper

The Indigenous Cultural Helper (ICH) is integrated into the Pediatric Community Rehabilitation (PCR) multidisciplinary pediatric rehabilitation team and works closely with Allied Health professionals including OT/PT/SLP/SW/CDS. The ICH educates health care providers about respectful relationships and health care for Indigenous peoples through resource review and development, and engagement across the disciplines to ensure cultural considerations, appropriateness, and sensitivity. The ICH will be a primary support between Indigenous peoples and health care providers to help improve access to PCR for Indigenous people and communities in and around the Edmonton area. The PCR Indigenous Cultural Helper will have experience and understanding of children & youth ages 0-18 and be able to support and guide PCR staff in supporting Indigenous individuals in a respectful and knowledgeable way. The Incumbent will be primarily accountable to help ensure that the pediatric rehabilitation services provided to clients in the Edmonton area are culturally appropriate, increase access to PCR services for indigenous individuals, and continue to foster an inclusive and culturally sensitive culture for PCR clients and staff.

Recognizing Alberta Health Services provides health care services to Indigenous people living in Alberta, the Pediatric Community Rehabilitation (PCR) Indigenous Cultural Helper will support resource review, development, and engagement for PCR to ensure cultural considerations, appropriateness, and sensitivity. This position will have the opportunity to support staff communication and interactions to help foster inclusivity for both clients and staff; current and prospective. Respecting the historical impacts of colonization, traditional Indigenous beliefs and cultures, the diversity of many beliefs among Indigenous peoples, and the complex Western medical approaches to health, the Pediatric Community Rehabilitation Indigenous Cultural Helper will also work to support access to PCR services for indigenous individuals and communities around the Edmonton Area.

Traditional Indigenous Knowledge (cultural preparation is based in oral cultures and not measured by diplomas and degrees) Traditionally earned understanding about Indigenous cultural beliefs, values, customs, traditions, healing ways, ceremonies, traditional medicine, and protocols. Learning about Indigenous cultural identity that is recognized by other indigenous people and is respectful in a health care environment. Knowledge of how to respond to diverse cultural needs of a wide variety of Indigenous peoples. Knowledge about the effects of colonization and residential schools, including intergenerational trauma. 1-2 years of education in child development or rehabilitation. If part of a registered profession - registration in good standing with applicable governing body. 3-5 years of work experience with children & youth 0-18 years. 5 years of work experience with Indigenous peoples.

Demonstrated proficiency with computers - i.e. Email, Teams, Zoom, etc. Experience in conflict resolution. Knowledge of and experience in community development and working within a holistic approach to health. Demonstrated commitment to working as part of a collaborative multidisciplinary team. Ability to function with flexibility in a dynamic and changing environment. Initiative, good judgement, accountability. Demonstrated excellent interpersonal skills. Demonstrated excellent verbal and written communication skills. Demonstrated excellent problem solving and critical thinking skills.

Degree in humanities and/or social sciences. Lived experience with Indigenous history, values, culture, beliefs and speak an indigenous language, 2 years of experience working with children, youth, and their families in a health setting. Preferred candidate will have excellent interpersonal skills and excellent verbal and written communication skills in order to integrate and support the health professionals and families. connect Care experience.