Statement of Intent

This is a designated position for African Nova Scotians, reflecting the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers' (NSCSW) ongoing commitment to reparations, equity, diversity, and addressing historical inequities in the field of social work.

About the Position

As the Associate Registrar, you will foster meaningful relationships with a wide range of community groups at the provincial level. You'll collaborate closely with internal teams and committees, including the Professional Standards Committee, as well as the Council and Board of Examiners. Additionally, you'll engage with key partners such as the Dalhousie School of Social Work, the NS Association of Black Social Workers, and counterparts in other jurisdictions to strengthen the profession's collective impact.

Your responsibilities will include making influential decisions that shape professional development, standards, social policy, and the College's framework for Safe(r) Social Work Practice. These decisions will reflect the core values of the social work profession and align with the NSCSW's legislative mandate and strategic vision. This role requires initiative, independent decision-making, and accountability to the Executive Director/Registrar.

The Associate Registrar plays a vital role in advancing the NSCSW's mission by ensuring that entry-to-practice requirements and professional standards are upheld in alignment with the Social Workers Act and Social Work regulations. This critical position not only safeguards the integrity and quality of social work practice across Nova Scotia but also ensures that Afrocentric practices remain central to NSCSW regulation and the social work profession in the province.

Strategic thinking will be central to your work as you apply your expertise in adult education, social work practice, Afrocentric approaches, and regulation to advance the NSCSW's mission. This position transcends administrative duties-it's about fostering community, championing equity, and strengthening the foundation of social work practice across Nova Scotia.

Job Responsibilities

Registration Management: Oversee the entire registration process for new applicants, including initial assessments, documentation verification, and final approvals. Ensure all registrations comply with the Social Workers Act and regulations, while embedding Afrocentric principles to recognize and value diverse cultural perspectives in the registration process.

Candidacy Evaluation: Evaluate Social Work Candidates' readiness for entry into the profession, ensuring assessments are inclusive and reflective of Afrocentric practices. Conduct thorough reviews to ensure candidates meet the required standards, with a focus on fostering culturally responsive and equitable social work practices.

Clinical Social Work Specialist Assessment: Assess the clinical abilities of prospective Clinical Social Work Specialists, incorporating Afrocentric frameworks to evaluate their capacity to serve diverse communities effectively. Ensure candidates meet the necessary clinical experience and competency requirements, with an emphasis on cultural responsiveness and equity in practice.

Professional Standards: Assess and develop professional standards and guidelines, ensuring they are informed by Afrocentric approaches and inclusive of diverse cultural practices. Regularly update standards and guidelines to align with best practices in social work, prioritizing equity, anti-oppressive frameworks, and culturally grounded methodologies.

Collaboration: Work closely with relevant committees, boards, and stakeholders to uphold the integrity of the profession, ensuring Afrocentric perspectives are central to decision-making processes. Facilitate communication and collaboration among various entities involved in social work regulation and practice, fostering partnerships that promote cultural responsiveness.

Reporting: Maintain accurate and comprehensive records related to registration, compliance, and disciplinary actions, ensuring transparency and accountability in all processes. Prepare regular reports for internal use highlighting efforts to integrate Afrocentric practices and uphold the values of equity and inclusion.

Core Competencies

Education and Registration: A Master's Degree in Social Work and registration (or eligibility for registration) as an RSW in Nova Scotia, with a minimum of five (5) years of social work experience.

Integrated Knowledge of Theory and Practice: Strong understanding of social work professional development standards, standards of practice, and code of ethics, with the ability to integrate adult education theory and Afrocentric practices into policy analysis, development, and professional initiatives.

Research and Evaluation Expertise: Demonstrated skills in research, evaluation, and the organization and implementation of professional programs.

Technological Proficiency: Proficiency in technology, including the use of various platforms, to support communication and engagement.

Community Development and Advocacy: Exceptional community development skills and macro practice advocacy expertise to foster meaningful connections and drive systemic change.

Project and Organizational Skills: Strong project management, organizational, and facilitation skills to effectively lead initiatives and achieve strategic goals.

Legislative and Regulatory Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of the NS Social Workers Act, regulations, and by-laws to ensure compliance and alignment with professional standards.

Strong Communication: Outstanding writing and communication skills to effectively convey ideas and engage diverse audiences.