Mental Health Support Worker Training Opportunity

You must apply on this posting to be considered for this program.
You MUST attach a recent resume when applying on this posting.
Dates are subject to change at any time.
This program will involve participants completing the Community Mental Health Worker certification program through Vancouver Island University (VIU) with tuition paid for by the Ministry of Health and participants paid a stipend for 37.5 hours per week while studying. The current stipend rate is $24.08 per hour.
This program may take up to 9 months to complete. Upon successful completion, participants will commence employment in a community MENTAL HEALTH program in the community and department they did the program with.
You must have a personal laptop/computer and a reliable internet connection as all of the theory classes are on-line and done from the participant’s home.
Some of the conditions required to enter the program are:

• Must be fully vaccinated against COVID 19 and provide proof in the form of the BC Vaccine Card.
• Must be a Canadian Citizen or have Permanent Residency status in Canada.
• Completing a Criminal Record Check (CRC) for working with children and vulnerable adults.
• A valid BC Drivers License and personal vehicle may be required to meet the qualifications for subsequent positions upon completion of the program.
• Meeting the university’s admission requirements for the Community Mental Health Worker program in a timely manner. Those accepted by the university first will stand a better chance of securing a seat.
• Signing a Twelve (12) month return of service agreement (ROSA). The ROSA period commences upon completion of the program and starting work in a community MENTAL HEALTH program.
• Signing the Community Mental Health Certificate Program Waiver that allows the sharing of your relevant information with VIU.
• Pass an English proficiency test if English is your second language or you were educated outside of Canada.

During the Program:

• You will be paid a stipend of $24.08 per hour for 37.5 hours per week, via Northern Health Payroll, funded by the Ministry of Health. This stipend is non-insurable and non-pensionable.
• The Ministry of Health will pay the tuition & fees directly to VIU and Northern Health will provide confirmed participants with a one-time $342 stipend to assist with the costs of pre-requisite courses and necessary books.
• Those that require English Proficiency testing will be reimbursed for exam fees to a maximum of $400. Receipts required.
• The theory portion of the program will be on-line Monday to Friday. Clinicals and Practicum/Preceptorship portions will be varied days and shift times and may include weekends and nights.
• Travel and overnight stays may be required for clinical placements. Associated costs will be covered.

Following Successful Completion of the Community Mental Health Worker program:

• You are obligated to immediately apply for all regular vacancies for which you are qualified in the department you completed the program through and accept any position offered unless you have a bona-fide reason.
• The term of your Mental Health Support Worker position will be deemed to have ended
• No requirement by Northern Health for displacement or layoff rights under the Collective Agreement

REQUIRED EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE:

• Grade 12 (and English 12) or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Physical ability to carry out the duties of the position.
• Ability to deal with others effectively, including working with clients living with mental illness and/or substance use challenges.
• Ability to organize work.