Peer Support Worker

This position is part of the Overdose Prevention Site providing harm reduction and supervised consumption services, based in Lethbridge. The site is currently located outside of the Lethbridge shelter. These services are part of a range of evidence-based services that support prevention, harm reduction and treatment for Albertans living with substance use challenges. The Overdose Prevention Site provides a place where people can use drugs in a monitored, hygienic environment to reduce harm from substance use while offering wrap-around services such as counselling and referrals to services such as housing and treatment (e.g., opioid agonist therapy, detox, income support). Through their own lived experience(s) with addictions, homelessness and/or mental health illnesses, the Peer Support Worker offers hope to clients by sharing their story, offering mentorship and support; advocating for client needs; and supporting an integrated and harm reduction-oriented experience within the OPT and broader programming. The role also includes delivery of harm reduction supplies, supervised consumption clinical interventions (e.g., overdose response support), education, naloxone kit distribution, needle debris pick up, referrals to other health and social services, and work within the area surrounding the site. This position has transitioned to Recovery Alberta effective September 1, 2024. By applying on this posting, if you are the successful candidate, you agree to and will become an employee of Recovery Alberta.

As a Peer Support Worker, you will provide interventions and supports that are complementary to the work of a multi-disciplinary outreach team. The team functions together to provide treatment, rehabilitation and support services for the diverse needs of clients navigating life impacting experiences. Through your own lived experience(s), and experiences of recovery and resilience, as the Peer Support Worker, you can authentically inspire hope to clients by sharing your story, offering mentorship and support; advocating for client needs; and supporting an integrated and resiliency/recovery-oriented health care and treatment experience.

Please refer to the Additional Required Qualifications.

Post-secondary education applicable to the position.

One year experience working with diverse and marginalized populations, particularly the homeless (work or volunteer). One year experience working with individuals with Addictions concerns. Previous experience in health care setting or in human services field outside of health care setting. Knowledge of an Indigenous language and culture. Non-Violent Crisis Intervention. First Aid. Some knowledge in Connect Care and/or training.