Youth Refuge Worker - Vicky P

About the Opportunity

MCM (Melbourne City Mission) is a leading community services organisation that innovatively works alongside thousands of Victorians and their communities to overcome barriers experienced through Homelessness, Early Years, Disability, Palliative care, Early Childhood Intervention Services and Education.

Melbourne City Mission Youth Refuges aim to provide safe, secure short-term accommodation for young people 16 – 24 years of age experiencing homelessness and assists them in moving toward independent living. The service provides accommodation, support, counselling, information and assistance to young people based on their needs (e.g. Centrelink, health and legal services) and support in finding suitable accommodation options. Melbourne City Mission operates four Youth Refuges situated in the North West and North East of Melbourne – Stopover; WRAP, Iramoo and Vicky’s Place. Vicky’s Place Youth Refuge accommodates up to 7 young women and their children in Rosanna.

The Youth Refuge Worker provides structured support to young people who are accommodated at the Refuge in accordance with DFFH and MCM guidelines and offers support to residents in finding appropriate accommodation and support services suitable to their needs. Workers shall maintain an environment that promotes the health and safety of all residents and staff; fulfil the record keeping, data and other administrative functions of the service; and assist the general day to day running of the refuge.

About you

We are looking for someone who can:

• Provide structured support, assessment and referral to young people and their children. 
• Provide information to young people to assist them to understand themselves, issues impacting on their homelessness, their rights and the services and supports available to assist them.
• Provide assistance to access appropriate accommodation options particularly youth housing, family reconciliation, private rental and public housing. 
• Respond to the crisis needs of young people as they arise. 
• Respond appropriately to young people presenting with difficult and challenging behaviours. 

Benefits of working with MCM include:

• Inclusive Employer by the Diversity Council of Australia
• Attractive Salary Packaging benefits
• Supportive learning and development environment
• Culture of continuous improvement

Essential:

• Tertiary qualifications in Social Work, Youth Work, or related community services field (Minimum Diploma and demonstrated experience). 
• A clear understanding of working within a case management framework including client assessment and intake processes. 
• Strong ability to actively and assertively engage young people with complex needs, particularly in a residential environment. 
• An understanding of the homelessness service system with knowledge of patterns, trends and systemic issues, and principles in working with at risk young people.  
• Knowledge of local and regional human service networks and service providers. 
• Demonstrated ability to work autonomously and as part of a team. 
• Excellent communication and problem solving skills encompassing interpersonal, verbal and written, and negotiation skills. 
• Strong organisational, time management and computer skills. 
• Availability to work shift work including weekends and sleepover shifts. 
• Computer literacy, including proficiency in navigating client management systems and Microsoft Office.
• Internet-enabled device for Time & Attendance when working offsite.

Screening Criteria

• National Police check
• Working with Children check and NDIS Worker Screening check or ability to obtain
• Valid Victorian Drivers licence
• Right to Work in Australia

Applications for this role close: 11th of November 2024, so please apply early.  Please include your current resume and cover letter.
Please review the position description to understand more about the role and responsibilities. If you have any needs throughout the recruitment process that have not already been catered for, we encourage you to contact recruitment@mcm.org.au to let us know how we can better support you to apply.

About MCM

We are a leading not for profit, purpose-driven organisation that offers a broad range of services in Early Years, Disability, Homelessness and Family Services, Palliative Care and Education.  

Our commitment to Safety

MCM is committed to the safety of its clients and employees, taking a zero-tolerance approach to violence within the workplace and abuse, including child abuse and abuse of people with disability. All employees are required to comply with the Child Safe Standards.

Our Commitment to Diversity

At MCM we embrace our differences because we know that diversity helps us to innovate and make the biggest impact possible. Our DEI Strategy supports and drives an inclusive workplace culture. We embrace the learning opportunities that come with authentic commitment to equity of access for all. We particularly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates to apply.