Child and Family Service Representative at shíshálh Nation — NeverHard

The Position Under the direction of the Child and Family Services Manager, the shíshálh Nation Child and Family Service (CFS) Representative represents and advocates for the interests of shíshálh Nation children, youth and families in matters related to child and family services (child protection). The role helps ensure that the heritage, cultural traditions, identity and rights of shíshálh children are protected and preserved by all parties involved in child welfare matters, including MCFD, Indigenous Child and Family Service Agencies, and child welfare systems in other provinces and territories. The Candidate Advocacy and Nation Representation Represent the shíshálh Nation in matters related to child and family services, including participation in court proceedings as directed and in consultation with management and legal counsel. Advocate for the rights, interests and wellbeing of shíshálh children, youth, and families, including the protection of cultural identity, community connection, and Nation involvement in decision making. Ensure that children's rights to culture, community, and connection to the Nation are recognized and upheld in planning, decision-making, and court processes. Provide advocacy, support and information to families to help them understand and navigate child protection and family court processes. Promote outcomes that support family unity, stability, and the reduction of shíshálh children and youth in care. Child Protection and Legal Process Support Receive and respond to notifications from child protection agencies within required timelines, ensuring timely and appropriate Nation involvement. Attend and support child protection investigations and related meetings, including accompanying social workers and supporting families during interactions with agencies where appropriate. Prepare, review, and respond to legal documents in accordance with court requirements, in consultation with management and legal counsel. Prepare and contribute to plans of care, including providing input and recommendations related to placement, safety, and family connection. Interpret and apply relevant child welfare legislation and legal processes to support informed advocacy and decision-making. Attend court proceedings, case conferences, and related meetings as required. Prepare court materials, including summaries, documentation, and supporting information as required. Family Advocacy, Planning, and Support Work directly with children, youth, and families to provide culturally grounded advocacy, guidance, and problem-solving related to child welfare involvement. Facilitate and participate in family meetings to support safety planning, care planning, and resolution of concerns. Gather relevant information through dialogue, observation, and collaboration with families, caregivers, and service providers to inform advocacy and planning. Collaborate with other CFS staff on the development of cultural plans for children and youth in care to ensure connection to shíshálh culture, community, and identity. Work in collaboration with the Child and Family Case Manager and Family Support Workers to support coordinated planning and implementation of supports. Liaison and Coordination Act as a liaison between the shíshálh Nation, child protection agencies, legal counsel, and service providers. Liaise with other First Nations representatives, agencies, and organizations involved in supporting shíshálh Nation members and families. Ensure Nation representation is available when members are involved with child and family services matters. Coordinate and participate in case conferences and meetings with service providers to monitor progress, review plans, and identify changes or additional support required. Coordinate communication and information sharing to support continuity, timely responses, and informed decision-making. Provide education and information to families, Nation leadership and staff, and community members regarding child protection processes, rights and available supports. Build and maintain strong working relationships with internal departments, external partners, and service providers. Documentation and Administrative Responsibilities Complete required research on the child/youth, confirming they are a member of shíshálh Nation, as well as any history of the child or family in relation to the Nation. Compile and maintain relevant case-related information and documentation to support planning, advocacy and decision-making. Prepare, review, and support the filing of legal documents, including plans of care and related materials, in accordance with court requirements. Gather and organize information and documentation required to support court processes. Support preparation for court proceedings, including coordinating information, documentation, and participation of relevant parties. Maintain accurate, thorough, and up-to-date files and documentation. Track timelines and support compliance with legislative and court requirements. Prepare reports, summaries, and documentation as required by management, Council and external agencies. Travel as required to attend court meetings and support families, sometimes with minimal notice Other related duties as assigned. Other duties as assigned Qualifications, Skills and Abilities Bachelor's Degree in Social Work, Social Science, Child & Youth Care or related field and/or an equivalent combination of education and experience is required. Minimum 3 years of experience in child and family services, or a related field, preferably within a First Nations context. Knowledge of relevant legislation and policies, including the Federal Child Welfare Act, Child, Family, and Community Service Act, Youth Justice Act, Adoption Act, Family Law Act and Aboriginal Operations and Practice Standards and Indicators, Ministry of Child & Family Services related policies. Ability to gather and analyze information, and to contribute to the preparation, review, or coordination of legal documents and materials; experience with preparation and review of legal documents and Plans of Care is an asset. Strong understanding of Indigenous child and family wellbeing, including the impacts of intergenerational trauma and the importance of cultural continuity and community connection. Demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with families, community members, legal counsel and external agencies. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, including the ability to prepare clear, accurate and timely documentation and reports. Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple files and meet timelines. Ability to exercise sound judgment, maintain confidentiality, and navigate complex and sensitive situations with professionalism and cultural safety. Strong computer skills with proficiency in Windows and Microsoft Suite. Experience working with Electronic Medical Records (EMR) or Case Management software is an asset. Knowledge of shíshálh culture, community and governance structures is an asset. Work outside office hours will likely be required to meet families' needs. Valid Class 5 Driver’s License and access to a reliable and safe vehicle Acceptable Criminal Record Check with vulnerable sector clearance Mandatory confidentiality is a condition of employment for all staff of the Nation.