Indigenous Cultural Helper

Your Opportunity:

As a bona fide occupational requirement, and under Section 11 of the Alberta Human Rights Act, only Indigenous applicants will be considered. We encourage Indigenous candidates to self- identify.The Indigenous Wellness Core (IWC) works in collaboration and partnership across Alberta Health Services (AHS) and with all external partners to support innovation and improvement in Indigenous Health and to work towards health equity for Indigenous peoples and communities. The IWC has a significant opportunity to improve the health of Indigenous Peoples in Alberta by focusing on upstream efforts and health equity, creating, and building on community empowerment and action, and transforming health service delivery toaddress racism and focus more on determinants of health and prevention. The IWC is the mechanism through which AHS plans to achieve on-going provincial improvement in Indigenous health, patient outcomes and experience, health improvement and sustainability of Alberta’s health system.

Description:

The Indigenous Cultural Helper (ICH) will provide direct support to the Cultural Team Lead/Elder's Advocate at Alberta Hospital Edmonton (AHE) Cultural Grounds and operational support for ceremonies at various other locations within Edmonton when needed. This individual will be required to work directly with AHE patients, staff and public members in a kind, caring and respectful manner including but not limited to advocacy, cultural support, counseling, education, navigation and facilitation of traditional Indigenous wellness services to patients, families and health professionals. The ICH may, when required, provide clarity and direction to participants about protocols and ceremonial procedures.

Recognized by an Indigenous community as being competent in the use of traditional Indigenous practices. Having training and guidance in the use of traditional Indigenous approaches to wellbeing. Having the ability to support the use traditional healing practices. Previous experience in a health care setting or in human services field outside of health care setting, and advanced experience as a Helper of Indigenous healing methods, culture and traditions. Knowledge and respect for the diversity of Indigenous populations and communities. Knowledge of Indigenous history, worldview, perspectives, beliefs/values, culture and traditions and spirituality is required. Knowledge and ability to teach and provide use of traditional Indigenous protocol and traditional medicines.

Must be kind and respectful towards others.Possess exceptional interpersonal skills. Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with others. Demonstrates good written skills and use of relevant computer software.

Knowledge of an Indigenous language considered an asset. Experience and/or post-secondary degree in health care or social sciences considered an asset.Knowledge and training in Connect Care.