Job Opportunity: Community Connector for Social Prescribing for Adults 55+

Through funding made possible by Saskatchewan Seniors Mechanism, the Steering Committee for Social Prescribing in Regina is seeking a compassionate and dedicated individual to join our team as Community Connector for Social Prescribing to support older adults, 55+.

Social Prescribing is a holistic approach to healthcare that empowers individuals to take control of their health and well-being. In this model, healthcare professionals refer clients to a “Community Connector,” who works closely with them to create a personalized wellness plan. The Community Connector links clients with community groups and services that offer both practical and emotional support. These community resources address social factors that impact health such as isolation, physical activity, nutrition, food insecurity, and access to services. By providing non-medical support, Social Prescribing helps reduce clients’ reliance on healthcare providers and eases the pressure on the healthcare system.

The connector must be highly self-motivated to engage with the community at all levels, work independently with guidance and support from a Steering Committee, have a good working understanding of the Social Determinants of Health, and adhere to the principles of Social Prescribing.

More information on Social Prescribing can be found here:
https://reginacommunityclinic.ca/about-us/social-prescribing
https://www.socialprescribing.ca/

Salary

The Community Connector is a part time contracted position working remotely, 20 hours per week. Rate of pay is $26,000 per year.

Community Connector – Key Responsibilities and Tasks

• Collaborate with the Steering Committee to establish the initiative in Regina by:
  • Identifying and approaching potential referral sources,
  • Creating and maintaining relationships with service organizations and groups, and
  • Promoting the initiative in Regina and providing education about Social Prescribing to a variety of audiences.
• Engage in asset mapping of the community to build a strong understanding of existing supports and services while building a rapport with the support agencies.
• Assist in creating referral pathways to ensure smooth and appropriate access between referring medical professionals, the Community Connector, and community services and supports.
• Accept and process referrals:
  • Use a person-centred approach to conduct a holistic assessment,
  • Collaborate with the client to create a personalized plan, focusing on their priorities,
  • Identify and present appropriate supports and services available in the community,
  • Support clients in selecting the best resources for their needs, and
  • Facilitate connection(s) between client and community services.
• Support older adults (55+) in Regina to connect with community supports and services that address non-medical health related needs such as housing, food, employment, income, and social connection,
• Assist individual in overcoming barriers to accessing services to improve their health and well-being,
• Collect and maintain data for evaluation and program improvement and development,
• Adhere to the basic tenants of Social Prescribing to ensure individuals are connected to appropriate services that enhance their well-being.

Skills and Qualifications

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a focus on building relationships with clients and community partners,
• Ability to engage with clients from diverse backgrounds and understand their unique needs,
• Ability to encourage and support clients in the co-creation and implementation of their personalized wellness plan,
• Strong problem-solving skills to remove barriers to access.
• Strong ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks while receiving support and guidance from the Steering Committee,
• Self-motivated to manage and prioritize client caseload,
• Previous experience working with older adults or in a social service setting is an asset,
• Familiarity with the principles of social prescribing and the social determinants of health or willingness to learn,
• Strong understanding of community supports and services for older adults,
• Proficiency in spoken and written English.

The successful candidate must have own transportation and Class 5 Drivers License. A Vulnerable Sector Criminal Record Check will be required.

Training and Support

• Training will be provided to ensure success in the role.
• A Community of Practice is being established to support individuals in similar positions across Saskatchewan.
• The Community Connector can expect ongoing communication, connection, and support with peers, Steering Committee members, the Saskatchewan Seniors Mechanism, and the Health Quality Council of Canada.

The Community Connector will work remotely; however, an appropriate meeting space will be provided as needed.