Kaiāwhina (Mental Health Support Worker)

Te Tāwharau o Te Whakatōhea (TToTW) is based in Ōpōtiki in the sunny Eastern Bay of Plenty. Following our Treaty settlement in 2024, we are entering an exciting period of growth, with the return of significant assets and renewed opportunity for our people. Our vision, Tū Ake Whakatōhea, speaks to unity, identity, resilience, and collective aspirations. It reflects both our history and our future, acknowledging the hardships we have endured, the strength we carry, and the shared path we are continuing to shape together. Tū Ake means to stand with pride, to stand connected, and to stand grounded in whakapapa and tikanga. It is about standing for those who came before us and those who will follow, as Whakatōhea. Guided by our strategic direction, Te Puia o Whakaari, we are committed to strengthening connections to whakapapa, reo, marae, and whenua; creating meaningful opportunities for whānau; and ensuring sustainable, intergenerational prosperity. Te āheinga - The opportunity: The Kaiāwhina in the Pou Oranga Whaiora Residential Service are responsible for providing holistic support to individuals seeking recovery from methamphetamine dependencies. This role involves implementing culturally sensitive interventions, incorporating traditional Māori healing modalities and values with western recovery practice to promote overall well-being and sustainable recovery. This role sits within an iwi‑led service delivered by Te Pou Oranga o Te Whakatōhea, in collaboration with the Eastern Bay Iwi Provider Alliance including Tūwharetoa ki Kāwerau, Tūhoe Hauora, and Te Tohu o Te Ora o Ngāti Awa working collectively to provide kaupapa Māori‑based healing and support for whānau impacted by methamphetamine harm. These opportunities are part-time and casual positions, in a 24-hour facility, therefore there are a range of shifts available (shift work, roster-based scheduling). Monday to Friday: 10pm – 6.30am Responsibilities Provide one-on-one support to whaiora, addressing their physical, social, and emotional needs, within a safe and supportive environment. Facilitate group sessions focussing on recovery, coping mechanisms and life skills. Assist in the development and delivery of culturally appropriate recovery programs that are mana enhancing. Administer and prescribed medications to whaiora as per the designated schedule and maintain records as per process. Collaborate with whaiora to identify personal recovery goals, during and post-residential treatment. Prepare regular reports, keep accurate reports of incidents. Collaborate with the clinical team, counsellors, and internal and external organisations. Requirements Level 4 Certificate in Mental Health, and/or Addictions (or willingness to obtain). Experience in providing support services to individuals with substance abuse issues, preferably in a Māori cultural context. Knowledge of traditional Māori healing modalities and values, and a willingness to integrate them into the support services. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with an ability to establish rapport with whaiora and their whānau. Empathy, cultural sensitivity, and a non-judgmental attitude towards individuals with addiction issues. Basic understanding of medication administration protocols and adherence to safety guidelines. Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail for accurate documentation and reporting. Commitment to ongoing professional development and cultural competency training. Available for casual work on weekdays, weekends and nights. Check us out at: https://www.whakatohea.co.nz Due to the large number of applications, we will only contact shortlisted candidates. #J-18808-Ljbffr