Peer Support Worker

The Acute Care Addiction Recovery Program (ACARP) in Calgary is expanding services to include Peer Support Workers (PSWs) within the Emergency Departments (ED) at Peter Lougheed Centre and Rockyview General Hospital. As integral members of the Emergency Medicine team, PSWs provide recovery-oriented support and interventions to individuals in the ED who are experiencing substance use and addiction-related challenges. This position is located at Peter Lougheed Centre. Reporting to the Manager, ACARP Calgary, PSWs will be part of a grant-funded initiative operating through March 31, 2028, aimed at establishing a Recovery Coach Network. Drawing on their lived experience of substance use and recovery, PSWs promote hope, resilience, and recovery by demonstrating the possibility of positive change and sustained wellness. Using a patient-centred, trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and recovery-oriented approach, PSWs support patients through mentorship, advocacy, emotional and practical assistance, and the sharing of lived experience. They facilitate engagement in care by helping interested individuals to identify recovery goals, strengths, and support needs, while promoting informed decision-making and self-determination. In accordance with peer support best practices, PSWs advise patients about community resources and recovery supports, thereby fostering continuity of care beyond an ED. Through these activities, PSWs contribute to improved health outcomes, enhanced quality of life, increased community integration, and strengthened recovery capital for individuals seeking recovery from substance use and addictions.

As a Peer Support Worker, you will provide interventions and supports that are complementary to the work of a multi-disciplinary outreach team. The team functions together to provide treatment, rehabilitation and support services for the diverse needs of clients navigating life impacting experiences. Through your own lived experience(s), and experiences of recovery and resilience, as the Peer Support Worker, you can authentically inspire hope to clients by sharing your story, offering mentorship and support; advocating for client needs; and supporting an integrated and resiliency/recovery-oriented health care and treatment experience.