Forensic Community and Liaison Social Worker (BSW or MSW), Forensic Psychiatric Surrey Regional Clinic - Surrey, BC

This Temporary, Full-Time opportunity is with the Forensic Psychiatric Surrey Regional Clinic in Surrey, BC.

Forensic Psychiatric Regional Clinics and Programs are for people with a mental health and/or substance use disorder who have come into contact with the law. The courts may refer them to one of our regional clinics for assessment and treatment. We believe that people, when properly supported, have the ability to manage most aspects of their lives. We focus on people's strengths and resources instead of on symptoms and problems. They are a key member of their treatment team and an active participant in their own care. We help them get the care, support, and treatment they need.

What you’ll do:

• Conduct initial intake and ongoing biopsychosocial social work psychiatric assessments including current mental status examinations, general assessments of physical health, special needs/precautions, and complete all related assessment tools as per policy.
• Identify, develop and implement an Integrated Treatment Plan based on the evaluation of clinical risk and need through the completion of the Short-term Assessment of Risk & Treatability (START).
• Ensure the Regional Clinic Manager is informed of emerging problems, unusual circumstances, plan of action, and legal issues concerning assigned clients.
• Screen to determine whether referral to or liaison with other agencies is required and whether appropriate community options exist.
• Provide community case coordination and advocacy services for clients by methods such as communicating and monitoring client contacts with mental health teams, private psychiatrists, family physicians, probation, other specialists, and social service agencies that are involved in the provision of services to the client to ensure continuity of care and sharing of pertinent information.
• Maintain concise and accurate documentation of relevant information on client files in accordance with FPSC policy standards to meet regulatory requirements and provide evidence and rationale to support findings and treatment plan.
• Provide written reports and summaries as per FPSC policy, standards and guidelines.
• Provide clinical services, information and support, and short-term, time-limited follow-up as required.
• Facilitate access to psychiatric and social services by methods such as receiving referrals as per FPSC policy, accompanying clients to community resources as clinically appropriate as part of their community transition plan; and conducting home visits as per the ITP and FPSC policy.

What you bring:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Social Work from an accredited School of Social Work.
• Two (2) years recent, related experience working in a mental health setting.
• Effective September 1, 2013, full registration with the British Columbia College of Social Workers (BCCSW) is required.
• Valid BC Drivers License.
• Current Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Certificate.
• Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of the historic and ongoing impacts of settler colonialism and systemic racism on Indigenous Peoples within social and health contexts.
• Show a clear commitment to identifying, challenging, and eradicating Indigenous-specific racism and all forms of discrimination impacting equity-deserving groups within healthcare settings.
• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of legislative obligations and provincial commitments within BC Mental Health & Substance Use Services contexts.

Core Competencies:

• Brings an understanding of the Indigenous specific racism and the broader systemic racism that exists in the colonial health care structure.
• Embed Indigenous Cultural Safety and Humility into all aspects of work.
• Foster trust through respectful communication, active listening, and honoring equity-deserving people's perspectives on health and wellness.
• Commit to ongoing education and training on Indigenous health issues, cultural safety, and DEI principles.
• Provide patient-centred care that respects Indigenous ways of knowing and healing.

Skills & Knowledge:

• Broad knowledge of social work theory and Forensic Psychiatric Social Work practice.
• Demonstrated ability in social work practice related to assessment of behaviour, risk and to assisting clients to regain/improve their coping abilities.
• Shows a commitment to learning about and upholding legislative obligations and provincial commitments outlined in foundational documents.

What we bring:

Every PHSA employee enables the best possible patient care for our patients and their families. Whether you are providing direct care, conducting research, or making it possible for others to do their work, you impact the lives of British Columbians today and in the future.

Join one of BC’s largest employers with province-wide programs, services and operations – offering vast opportunities for growth, development, and recognition programs that honour the commitment and contribution of all employees.

PHSA is committed to anti-racism and equity in our hiring and employment practices. We invite applications and enquiries from all people, particularly those belonging to the historically, systemically, and/or persistently excluded groups identified under the B.C. Human Rights Code.