Child Advocate

Victim Services Role

Child Advocate

Be the steady, compassionate presence a child and family need during one of the most difficult experiences of their lives. As a Child Advocate, you provide information, guidance, and emotional support from the moment a family arrives at our centre.

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In This Role You Will

  • Support caregivers while interviews are being processed, ensuring all immediate needs and concerns are addressed
  • Provide support, information, and resources to children, youth, and families referred to the Durham CYAC
  • Ensure that children, youth, and families have an accurate understanding of the different components of the CYAC process
  • Conduct over-the-phone or in-person follow-up after appointments and interviews as directed by the family's needs
  • Complete administrative tasks such as email correspondence, data entry, and file review
  • Document all interactions and conversations in accordance with CYAC protocols

What We're Looking For

  • Interested and enthusiastic about providing support to children, youth, and families where sexual abuse or serious physical harm has occurred
  • Excellent verbal and non-verbal communication skills
  • Ability to demonstrate maturity, reliability, and punctuality as well as a strong work ethic
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality when working with sensitive information
  • Sensitivity towards family histories, potential impacts of previous experiences, and cultural differences
  • Desire to work independently and in a cross-functional team environment
  • Knowledge of the criminal justice system and its processes is considered an asset
Required Background Applicants must have a background in social work, psychology, sociology, or a related field — or previous experience in a Victim Services role with a combination of relevant experience.

Commitment Required

  • Minimum of one 3-hour shift per week for one year
  • Attend orientation and training prior to starting
  • Typical shift: Monday–Friday, 9am–12pm or 1pm–4pm
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