Community Advisor - Wellington (WFH)
ABOUT WELLINGTON MS SOCIETY
The Wellington MS Society (WMS) is a not-for-profit organisation devoted to supporting People
affected by MS (PaMS) in the Greater Wellington region to lead independent, active and fulfilling lives. We are one of 18 regional societies throughout New Zealand, looking after the needs of people with multiple sclerosis and other allied neurological diseases.
OUR PURPOSE
Working to meet the needs of people with MS, their whānau, and/or carers (supporters) in the wider Wellington region through support, information, educational resources and advocacy.
OUR VISION
People with MS and their whānau living well with MS.
OUR MISSION STATEMENT
To empower people with MS and their whānau to live their best lives.
PURPOSE OF THE POSITION
The purpose of this role is to support clients/individuals with MS, their whānau and carers/supporters by ensuring they have access to the services and resources they need. This includes managing a client load, fostering connections with community health providers, and serving as a vital link between clients and support services.
The role aims to enhance overall wellbeing and empower MS clients to lead independent, active and fulfilling lives.
Summary of key responsibilities:
Provide support to individuals with MS, their whānau and carers/supporters through managing your own client load
Visit clients/individuals with MS in their homes, workplace or other institutions as requested to support, educate and assess needs
Support the Manager/Lead Community Advisor and other Community Advisors in their roles
Participate actively in weekly team meetings and quarterly cluster group meetings as well as ongoing training and professional development
Promote the Society’s services to relevant individuals, groups, and organisations
Act as a key link between individuals with MS, support services, community health providers to ensure effective communication and support
JOB SCOPE
Advocacy and support to WMS clients and their families and whānau/families
Provide service on an “on request” basis
Visit clients/individuals with MS in their homes, workplace or other institutions as requested to support, educate and assess needs
Attend meetings with clients to advocate on their behalf, including with employers, WINZ, etc
Make appropriate referrals after assessment
Identify, prioritise and implement service to clients as required
Act as a link for clients/individuals with MS and the services available within the community
Facilitate Support groups in local areas for clients/individuals with MS
Be familiar with total service provision; including benefits and assistance available from Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand, Ministry of Health – Manatū Hauora and WINZ (Work and Income Te Hiranga Tangata), as well as voluntary organisations within the area
Educate clients/individuals with MS and service providers about MS
Liaise with health professionals about the requirements of people with MS
Client information management
Ensure all client personal information is succinctly documented and up to date
Maintain client confidentiality and appropriate case management
Ensure client consent forms are completed, signed, stored and disseminated to other relevant providers
Any other duties which arise from time to time and agreed with Manager and Lead Community
Advisor.
Reporting and key relationships
Existing and prospective MS clients
Manager and Lead Community Advisor
Community Advisors
Communications & Fundraiser
MSNZ – National office and Community Advisors/Field Workers
Volunteers and service providers
Te Whatu Ora Capital, Coast and Hutt Valley MS nurse and Allied health teams
External supervisor
WMS Committee and members
This position offers between 24 and 40 hours per week. Candidates must be able to work both from home and remotely. A full, clean NZ driver’s licence and current eligibility to work in New Zealand are required.
Person Specification:
Qualifications
A relevant qualification in health and/or the equivalent relevant
experience
Skills and Knowledge
Essential
Proven experience in a Community Advisor, Support Worker, Allied Health professional, or similar role
Knowledge and understanding of the NZ healthcare system, networks, and services available for independent living
Experience in the New Zealand health and/or disability sectors
Knowledge and understanding of mental health and/or disability issues or experience with supporting people with neurological conditions
People and relational skills
Self-leadership skills
Excellent communication, time management and organisational skills
Ability to be present information, ideas and recommendations in a detailed, clear and concise way
Computer knowledge and competency in Microsoft 365 (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint), SharePoint, Zoom/Teams and CRM databases (e.g. Infoodle)
Hold a current and clean NZ Driver Licence
Desirable
Clinical assessment skills
Knowledge and skills in training needs analysis
Experience in training, group work and facilitation
Personal qualities • Empathy with people
Cultural sensitivity and awareness
Demonstrates initiative
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Excellent communication skills
Planning and prioritisation skills
Commitment to ongoing professional development
Ability to maintain high standards
Sense of humour
Willingness to travel – mostly within the Wellington region
