Community Advisor / Health Navigator

• Support and empower people with MS and their whānau to live their best lives
• A small, close-knit and supportive team that values trust and collaboration
• Permanent, 24 – 40 hours. Remote/Work from home (Greater Wellington region)

Established in 1967, the Wellington MS Society (WMS) is a not-for-profit organisation, devoted to supporting People affected by Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in the Greater Wellington region to lead independent, active and fulfilling lives. WMS are one of 18 regional societies throughout New Zealand, looking after the needs of Persons with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and other allied neurological diseases.

Reporting to the Manager and Lead Community Advisor, you will be responsible for providing support to clients/individuals with MS, their whānau and carers/supporters by ensuring they have access to the services and resources they need. This includes managing a client load, fostering connections with community health providers, and serving as a vital link between MS clients and support services.

Key responsibilities:

• Conduct client assessments and visit clients/individuals with MS at their homes or workplaces, making appropriate referrals
• Provide advocacy support by accompanying clients to appointments and meetings, such as with employers or WINZ, to advocate on their behalf
• Educate MS clients, their whānau, carers/supporters, and service providers about MS to increase understanding and awareness
• Build and maintain strong relationships with MSNZ, cluster groups, health professionals, service providers, and referral agencies
• Act as a key link between MS clients and the support services available within the community
• Facilitate local support groups for MS clients to foster community and connection
• Participate actively in weekly team meetings and quarterly cluster group meetings to contribute to the team’s goals and initiatives

You’re a self-starter with a natural ability to connect, communicate and build strong relationships. Known for your resourcefulness and confident decision-making, you’re often the go-to person when others need guidance, advice and support. Your proven skills deliver positive impact, making a real difference for those around you.

This is permanent position between 24 and 40 hours per week, based anywhere in the Greater Wellington region. Enjoy the autonomy to manage your own schedule and the flexibility to work from home!

You will have a good home office setup and will be provided with tools for remote work, including a phone, laptop, a company car, and a monthly allowance to cover office costs.

Person Profile:

• A relevant qualification and/or experience as a Community Advisor, Health Navigator, Support Worker, Allied Health Professional, or within alternative therapies/medicine
• Experience in NZ health, social services, mental health, elderly care and/or disability sectors
• Knowledge or understanding of the challenges faced by clients with MS, mental health or neurological conditions, or other disabilities is highly advantageous
• Proven ability to build strong relationships and connect with people effectively
• Client assessment and advocacy support experience
• Excellent communication, time management and organisational skills
• High level of compassion, empathy and sensitivity to others needs
• A confident decision-maker with sound judgement and problem-solving skills
• Self-led, motivated, responsible and able to work independently and as part of a team
• Computer literate and proficient in Microsoft Office 365, Outlook, Zoom and CRM database

Candidates must be able to work remotely/from home and travel domestically for work (1-2 days, once or twice a year). A full, clean NZ driver’s licence and current eligibility to work in NZ are required.

Applications close: Sunday 26^th January 2025

Applications to: Ngan Nguyen

Position description: Available to view at mclaren.co.nz

P: 04 499 1069

W: www.mclaren.co.nz

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