Community Service and Addictions Worker

• Clear Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Check
• 19 years of age or older (varies, depending on province-specific ministry requirements)
• Grade 12 or equivalent, or Mature Student Status with successful completion of CAST testing
• Adequate level of physical health to be able to fulfill job requirements
• Other medical tests (e.g., TB Test) or proof of vaccinations (e.g., Hepatitis B) may be required by industry prior to placement
• Good command of the English language – both written and oral
• Completion of standard registration form

With the aging population, the tremendous advancements in technology, and our demand for the best quality of life, the healthcare industry is facing a growing shortage of well-trained personnel. Throughout the North American healthcare industry, there is an acute need to increase the size of the workforce and raise the skill level of that workforce.

This program provides students with the basic knowledge, skills, and work experience needed to become permanently employable in a CSW and AW setting.

A well-trained Community Service and Addictions Worker (CSW) is equipped with a flexible, adaptable career. Social and community service workers administer and implement a variety of social assistance programs and community services specializing in addictions. They assist clients to address personal and social problems. They are employed by social service and government agencies, mental health agencies, group homes, shelters, substance abuse centres, school boards, correctional facilities, and other establishments.

* Not all programs are offered at each location.

Graduates of this program are qualified to work in a wide variety of CSW settings and occupations. Job titles vary per location, but graduates are an integral part of many settings, including:

• Healthcare and social assistance
• Nursing and residential care facilities
• Youth centres
• Individual and family services
• Youth protection services
• Public administration
• Civic and social organizations
• Social advocacy
• Grant-making organizations
• Provincial government
• Out-patient care centres
• Local community service centres (e.g., CLSC)
• Vocational rehabilitation services
• Educational services
• Hospitals
• Community food and housing
• Emergency relief services
• Rehabilitation centres
• Public and private addictions counselling clinics
• Addictions and drug awareness agencies
• Mental health centres