Elder In Residence (non-union)

Job Summary:
The Elder will work with and within the principles, approaches and practices of the Sioux Lookout Meno Ya Win Health Centre (SLMHC) including the policies and procedures. The Elder will play a key role in supporting the goals of the Traditional Healing, Foods, Medicines, and Supports Program (THMFS). They will provide all patients with a welcoming, supportive and familiar environment and promote healing and healthy practices. The Elder will work closely with health care providers at the Sioux Lookout Meno Ya Win Health Centre to provide patient contact, support, education and counseling as an integral element of the patient care plan. They will work collaboratively with staff and healthcare providers to ensure culturally appropriate services are offered and may include interpretation, advocacy and navigation services for all patients, residents and clients.

Qualifications:
• Excellent communication skills (oral and written in English)
• Proficient and Fluent in one or more Sioux Lookout area First Nation languages (Cree, Oji-Cree, Swampy Cree, Ojibway) required
• Demonstrated proficiency in the “interpretive process”
• Excellent interpersonal skills with a positive caring approach
• Good understanding of cross-cultural issues
• Ability to work flexible hours
• Proficient with computers
• Medical Interpreter certificate an asset
• Ability to communicate in First Nation Syllabics an asset

Job Duties:
• Periodic visits required to Community Counseling and Addiction Services, Chemotherapy, Dialysis Unit, Withdrawal Management, and Day Medicine.
• Additional visits to other departments as requested.
• Elder available for support, direction, counseling, and guidance to Interpreters and other staff as requested.
• Provide staff education on First Nations beliefs, customs, and practices.
• Aim to minimize cross-cultural barriers in the workplace.
• Assist staff in addressing issues that may arise at work.
• Elder will provide advice, support, and guidance in the development and continuity of the Traditional Healing, Medicines, Foods, and Support Program (THMFS).
• Elder support will be required for interpretive and translation services.
• Support needed for Traditional Practitioners services.
• Assistance with the Bimaadiziwin and Cross-Cultural Care Training programs as needed.
• Liaise with the Pastoral Care team to provide spiritual support for all patients, residents, and clients at the health centre.