Justice Navigator

Duties and Responsibilities

Client Support and Advocacy:

• Build supportive, empathetic, and non-judgmental relationships with women and non-binary individuals impacted by gender-based violence, providing guidance and referrals for mental wellness, addictions, and other needs. 

• Conduct client-centered assessments, identifying support systems, strengths, and both short-term and long-term goals, while developing personalized service plans. 

• Provide information and connect clients to community resources such as housing, healthcare, employment services, and legal assistance. 

• Work collaboratively with diverse populations, including marginalized ethnocultural groups, LGBTQ2SIA+ individuals, and clients with physical or mental disabilities. 

Legal Navigation and Court Support:

• Offer guidance and education on the legal systems, including criminal, family, and child protection laws, helping clients understand their rights and the procedures involved. 

• Guide clients through the legal paperwork process by clarifying which forms are relevant while maintaining clear boundaries to avoid offering legal advice. 

• Assist clients with preparing for court appearances, providing emotional and logistical support during these processes. 

• Accompany clients to legal appointments, court hearings, and other justice-related engagements, ensuring they feel confident and informed throughout. 

• Advocate on behalf of clients during legal processes, ensuring their voices are heard and their legal needs are addressed sensitively.  

Safety Planning and Crisis Intervention:

• Develop and revise safety plans in collaboration with clients to ensure their safety and security. 

• Provide crisis intervention and problem-solving support, helping clients navigate critical situations and avoid re-traumatization. 

• Conduct danger and risk assessments in a sensitive, trauma-informed manner.  

Trauma-Informed Support and Referrals:

• Maintain a trauma-informed approach to avoid re-victimizing clients and create a safe, supportive environment. 

• Facilitate access to specialized services, including mental health counseling, addiction services, and culturally relevant practices, particularly for Indigenous clients. 

• Facilitate regular support groups for clients impacted by GBV and other forms of trauma, providing a space for emotional support, shared experiences, and resource sharing. 

Program Coordination and Administration:

• Maintain accurate and confidential records of client interactions, including case notes, referrals, and outcomes. 

• Participate in regular case management and evaluation meetings, providing insights and feedback to improve service delivery. 

• Collaborate with other staff members, including case managers, crisis intervention workers, and external partners, to ensure integrated and seamless support for clients. 

Community Engagement and Resource Building:

• Stay current on low-barrier, trauma-informed practices and community resources related to family violence, homelessness, mental health, and legal support. 

• Develop partnerships with legal professionals, court staff, and community organizations to strengthen support networks for clients including establishing legal clinics and educational workshops 

Safety and Confidentiality:

• Always ensure the confidentiality and security of client information, adhering to organizational policies and legal requirements. 

• Report whereabouts and check-ins with supervisors when conducting home visits or working alone in the community to ensure safety. 

KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS

Education:   A degree in social work, legal studies, or a related field is preferred. Equivalent experience in outreach and legal navigation will be considered.  Experience:   Experience working with vulnerable populations, particularly those affected by domestic violence, gender-based violence and navigating legal systems.  Skills:  Strong understanding of trauma-informed practices and legal navigation.  Excellent communication, empathy, and advocacy skills.  Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.  A valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Autonomy  Decisions affect those involved on a specific job, and at times, the entire agency  Duties and responsibilities may vary from time to time without changing the general character of the duties or the level of responsibility entailed  Decisions consistently affect clients, the shelter, and at times, may affect the work performed in one or more shelters  Must comply with all regulations and WIN House Policy  Work Environment  The Justice Navigator will work in both office and community settings, including courts, legal offices, and community resource centers. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required.  Physical Demands  Involves sitting, computer use, walking, and standing on a regular basis  Ability to climb stairs, kneel, bend, reach, and stoop  Pushes, pulls, lifts (up to 30 pounds), physical activity related to the regular cleaning of equipment and supplies  Interacts with clients, children of clients, team members, visitors, government agencies/personnel under all circumstances, which may include traumatic situations such as violence and/or verbal escalation  WIN House will accommodate as required under applicable human rights legislation.  How to Apply Interested candidates are invited to apply through the WIN House Careers page.  We thank all applicants for their interest in WIN House. Only candidates selected for further consideration will be contacted. Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion WIN House is committed to making diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging central to how we deliver services, support our employees, and build our teams.  We strive to create a workforce that reflects the individuals, families, and communities we serve and encourage applications from qualified candidates of diverse backgrounds, identities, abilities, cultures, and lived experiences, including women, Indigenous peoples, Black and racialized communities, persons with disabilities, members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and other equity-deserving groups. Land Acknowledgement  WIN House operates in several locations throughout Amiswacîwâskahikan, on Treaty 6 territory - the traditional and ancestral territory and gathering place of diverse Indigenous peoples, including the Papaschase, Cree, Nakota Sioux, Dene, Ojibway, and many others, and the homeland of the Métis Nation.