Under the supervision of the Manager, Health and Social Services, the Band Representative and Child Advocate is a highly motivated individual with exceptional advocacy skills, possessing critical knowledge of the Child, Youth and Family Services Act (Ontario), Part IV. The Band Representative and Child Advocate acts on behalf of Michipicoten First Nation (MFN) as a party under the Child, Youth and Family Services Act, to advocate for the best interests of children affiliated with MFN and involved with Child Welfare Agencies, both on and off reserve.

 

The Band Representative and Child Advocate ensures that the rights of children and their families are respected throughout the planning process and court proceedings, and works to ensure a culturally appropriate disposition of the case. Flexible hours and ability to travel is required. This is a full-time permanent position.

 

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

 

Provide support to MFN families in all Child Welfare matters

• Complete intake form within 24 hrs of case assignment

• Accompany Child Welfare Agencies during investigations and home visits

• Develop relationship with family and supporting Agencies

• Assist with the development and implementation of a service plan, in which all parties agree regarding family and child welfare services: recommendations for placement, family mediation, access visits, home visits, repatriation, counselling, treatment, and cultural support

• Ensure that MFN families are fully aware of their rights and understand the child and family service system

• Advocate to maintain family units, and community and cultural ties

• Follow up with family and child welfare workers to stay up to date and to ensure service plans/plans of care are being implemented, and identify the need for changes or potential solutions

• Update case files after each interaction with client and/or partnering agency involved

• Provide culturally based support and education to child(ren) and family

 

Present MFN’s interests in Child Protection Proceedings or Hearings

• Schedule and plan meetings, court dates and travel arrangements

• Meet with family, child welfare workers and lawyer to discuss proceedings

• Gather evidence, prepare arguments, produce, and prepare witnesses and draft orders

• Communicate with Executive Officer and Manager to finalize proposals for plans of care

• Prepare statement outlining MFN‘s position on case proceedings

• Prepare, respond to, and process legal documents as required by Ontario Court rules and regulations

• Attend court appearances to provide oral and written presentations on MFN’s position

• Prepare, serve, and file additions or amendments to the member’s Plan of Care

• Prepare for and attend settlement conferences as set out by new Court Rules

 

Maintain strong knowledge of the Child, Youth & Family Services Act, the policies and procedures of the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services, and alternative options to apprehension

• Establish and maintain an active working relationship with all Child & Family Services agencies and other First Nation Band Representatives/Child Advocates

• Collaborate with MFN Health & Social Services Team to support mutual clients

• Stay up to date on support services available for clients

 

General Administration

• Check and respond to voice mail and emails daily

• Submit weekly work plans and time sheets

• Attend weekly Health & Social Services Team meetings

• Ensure client files are maintained, organized, and updated on a regular basis

• Protect files and case information to ensure confidentiality

• Complete monthly and quarterly statistical reports

 

QUALIFICATIONS

 

• Minimum Post-Secondary (Diploma or Degree) in Social Work, Social Science, or related field

• Successful completion of the First Nation Child Welfare Advocate (FNCWA) Certificate Program is preferred

• Minimum three years working experience with a First Nation’s Community in the social services field

• Extensive knowledge and understanding of the Child, Youth & Family Services Act including part IV, the Ministry of Child, Community and Services, Child, Youth & Family Services Act

• Proven ability to exercise discretion in handling confidential subject matter

• Must possess a valid driver’s license and own vehicle

• Current Criminal Reference Check and Vulnerable Sector Search (if position offered)

• Strong knowledge of Anishinaabe culture and history

• Able to interpret legislation and legal documents

• Knowledge of court proceedings involving Indigenous Children and Family Matters

• Knowledge of Case Management techniques

• Strong written and oral skills

• Strong demonstration of negotiation skills, techniques, and advocacy

• Willing to work flexible hours and travel with minimal notice

• Proficiency in MS Office applications, various software, and internet

• High level of integrity and work ethic

 

TERM Full-time, Permanent

 

WAGES

Michipicoten First Nation offers a comprehensive employee benefit package and competitive wage based upon

experience and qualifications.

 

TO APPLY

Interested persons may submit their cover letter & resume as one document by email to Lisa Belanger

hr@michipicoten.com