Job Description

Residential Counsellor (Day, Night and afternoon shifts which range from 8-12 hours)

The Residential Counsellor provides critical support to male individuals transitioning from federal incarceration. Responsibilities encompass facility security, resident engagement, and crisis management. High ethical standards, teamwork, and strong problem-solving skills are essential.  Our mission is to serve our community by promoting the personal growth and development of offenders, or those at risk of offending, by the provision of programs and services that positively impact on their transition to becoming integrated members of society.  We value and cultivate empowerment, responsible stewardship, community, excellence, integrity and respect.

Key Duties & Responsibilities:

Documentation & Reporting : Maintain detailed records of all events during shifts.  Document incidents in resident case notes. Complete regular house checks, logging details in the Duty Log. Undertake resident case note entries. Produce special reports as necessary.

Resident Interaction & Support : Assist residents during crises or problems.  Conduct resident intake and orientation sessions.  Provide access to resident medications and observe breathalyzer tests.  Ensure consistent upholding of resident confidentiality.  Ensure that residents follow House rules and abide by conditions.

Facility Maintenance & Security:  Adopt a leadership stance and ensure security against theft within the facility.  Familiarize with emergency evacuation and fire safety procedures.  Ensure daily availability of essential food and cleaning supplies.  Address and resolve any facility maintenance or safety concerns.

Administrative & Communication Tasks: Respond to after-hour facility inquiries in line with agency policy.  Familiarize with all agency policies, procedures, and house expectations.  Handle tasks such as copying paystubs, faxing prescriptions, and sending resident passes.  Attend house and staff meetings and training seminars.  Collaborate with Correctional Service Canada (CSC) and the police services.

Team Collaboration & Compliance: Collaborate as a member of the Case Management Team, focusing on resident progress. Report any violations of Special Conditions to the appropriate authority.

Other Responsibilities:  Fulfill other duties as directed by the organization

About St Leonard’s Society of Hamiton

The St. Leonard’s Society of Hamilton (SLSH) has been providing support since 1972 to adult males transitioning from incarceration back into the community. SLSH operates two Community Residential Facilities (CRFs) for individuals on parole under supervised release with Correctional Services Canada. Robert Street Residence accommodates up to 24 residents, while Clinton House can house up to 36 residents.  In addition to residential programs, SLSH manages the SLSH Reporting Centre, which offers support to individuals on parole living independently in the community. The centre helps them navigate their release conditions and access resources to support their successful integration.  SLSH also operates the Hamilton Chapter of Circles of Support and Accountability (CoSA), which provides structured support to individuals with histories of sexual offenses. By fostering accountability and community-based support, CoSA helps reduce the risk of reoffending and promotes safer long-term integration.  For more information, please go to www.slsh.ca