SafePlan Advocate

Job Description
About Us
We're more than just quality treatment for substance use disorders. We're a total health community. At SSTAR, our mission is healing the community, one person at a time. We will provide a personal level of healthcare and addiction treatment that addresses the mental, physical, and spiritual well-being of everyone we touch. SSTAR is a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) which affords our employees eligibility to apply for one of our three Loan Repayment Programs, including the HRSA LRP.
The SafePlan Advocate will assist victims of domestic violence who come to Bristol County Probate Court (Fall River) who are seeking 209A Protective Orders. Conduct comprehensive safety planning for victims and their children. Accompany and advocate for victims in court when possible, during civil court proceedings. Make referrals to community-based programs, the Bristol County District Attorney's Office, and the Women's Center at SSTAR.
Benefits

• 403B
• Dental insurance
• Disability insurance through Massachusetts PFML
• Employee discounts, cell phone, eyewear etc.
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance
• Flexible Spending Account
• Opportunities to earn CEU's
• Voluntary Benefits including but not limited to, Disability, Life, Critical Illness, Accident and Disability Insurances
• Paid Long Term Disability

Duties & Responsibilities

• Attend and complete training provided per MGL 233, 20k; to work as a domestic violence advocate.
• Attend and complete required SAFEPLAN training, quarterly meetings and certification process.
• Meet with victims coming to court to file for a 209A Protective Order and explain the SAFEPLAN program, including the process of obtaining and maintaining protective orders.
• Screen victims for appropriateness and eligibility to receive SAFEPLAN services.
• Assist victims in filling out protective order application forms.
• Listen to victims and make assessment of their circumstances and immediate needs.
• Employ the empowerment model and trauma-informed practices when working with clients and explaining their rights and options.
• Provide referrals for victims who need long-term support and counseling.
• Accompany and advocate for victims in court as permitted by the judge and/or desired by the victim.
• Assist victims to develop personalized safety plans, by helping them assess their risks, needs and resources.
• Help victims identify support systems and make warm referrals as appropriate for community resources, including the victim service agency, as well as other social service and allied criminal justice supports.
• Work collaboratively with the district attorney's office to ensure smooth transfer of services for victims who become involved in filing criminal complaints, show cause hearings or pending criminal cases.
• Act as a liaison to the court on behalf of the Women's Center at SSTAR (host program). Maintain professional boundaries and work collaboratively with other court-based personnel, advocates, and volunteers.
• Maintain confidential case files for victims and adhere to protocols for client confidentiality, as outlined in the SAFEPLAN manual and SSTAR policies and practices.
• Be available to assist victims during scheduled court hours, working collaboratively with host program.
• Receive direct supervision from Senior SAFEPLAN Advocate, Advocacy Services Coordinator, and the Director of the Women's Center on client matters as needed according to SAFEPLAN Program Manual.
• Report suspected incidents of abuse to DCF, Elder Services, and DPPC as appropriate.
• Complete SAFEPLAN paperwork, database reporting and other related tasks, duties and assignments in a timely manner, as required by the Women's Center at SSTAR Director, direct supervisors, or MOVA.
• Provide education and outreach, participate in SSTAR Women's Center program events, and attend all Women's Center Group Supervision Meetings and trainings as required by the Director.
• Other duties as required.

Experience and Skills
Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree (may be waived for relevant, comparable level of work or life experience).
• Prior experience in working with domestic violence, complex trauma, and/or crime victims.
• Knowledge of legal issues affecting victim/survivors of domestic violence.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work cooperatively with other professionals.
• Sensitivity to diversity issues and a commitment to cultural competency
• Bilingual/Multi-lingual (English/Spanish or English/Portuguese) preferred.