National Initiatives

National Settlement Service and Standards Framework

APPENDIX A
Model Documents

1) A Model Job Description of a Settlement Counsellor

The position functions below are taken from Occupational Competencies Framework, Immigrant & Multicultural Services, Final Report by BC Multilateral Task Force on Training, Career Pathing and Labour Mobility, June, 1998.

Position Description

Position Title: Settlement Counsellor

Reports to: Settlement Program Director

Salary Range if available:

Date position last revised:

Position Summary: To facilitate and promote the settlement of immigrants through the provision of various services, including individual assistance as well as group activities, and mobilizing relevant community resources.

Position Function

1. Support clients to adjust to life in Canada

a. Support newcomer families, individuals and communities in their orientation
b. Assist clients to understand Canadian society and laws
c. Support clients in managing significant change, culture shock and crises

2. Provide specialized services to clients

a. Facilitate access to appropriate services
b. Provide culturally sensitive services and counselling
c. Provide culturally responsive programs or services

3. Support the physical, social and emotional well-being of clients

a. Support clients in overcoming the effect of racism, discrimination, and oppression
b. Assist clients in identifying and assessing their needs
c. Assist clients to develop and sustain healthy lifestyles
d. Plan and support opportunities for intercultural exchange

4. Facilitate the entry of immigrants and refugees into the Canadian workforce

a. Assist the client to develop and implement a vocational/ career plan
b. Advocate for individual hiring with employers

5. Advocate for individual and collective social justice (for people of all backgrounds)

a. Provide opportunities for community development and empowerment through programs and activities
b. Promote multicultural organizational change
c. Facilitate multicultural organizational change
d. Support client groups to develop self-reliance
e. Facilitate public education about multiculturalism, immigration, anti-racism and human rights issues

6. Contribute to organizational effectiveness and to a welcoming environment for all practitioners and clients

a. Provide useful and accessible information for clients
b. Maintain appropriate records
c. Work effectively with volunteers
d. Maintain confidentiality and security of documents and information
e. Participate in organizational planning and evaluation
f. Maintain a positive and culturally sensitive working environment

7. Engage in ongoing personal and professional development

a. Identify needs for and set priorities in personal and professional development
b. Plan and implement personal and professional development to improve current performance and respond to change
c. Share experience/expertise with colleagues and others
d. Continuously expand knowledge and analysis of policies, practices and structures relevant to immigrant, multicultural, human rights and anti-racism issues

2) A Model Performance Appraisal and Development Plan Document

This model performance appraisal and development plan document is adapted from one provided by Dixie Bloor Neighborhood Centre, Toronto, Ontario.