Disability Navigator Job Mississauga area,Ontario Canada,Social Work

Position: Disability Benefits Navigator

Scope and Summary

of Primary Responsibilities

The Disability Benefits Navigator – GAIN Program (DBN – GAIN) plays a pivotal role in increasing access to disability benefits and supports for individuals with disabilities, with a specific focus on persons living with vision loss. As the dedicated point of contact, the DBN
-GAIN will help individuals and their families navigate federal, provincial, and territorial disability benefits such as the Disability Tax Credit (DTC), Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) and related supports.

The DBN - GAIN provides personalized, one-on-one support throughout the application process, including appeals, and ensures timely connection to healthcare services and community supports. This role helps clients overcome barriers by tailoring assistance to their unique needs, enhancing independence, and improving overall well-being.

The DBN - GAIN will strive to ensure that every person referred to VLR for service has timely access to VLR service information, connection to the healthcare system and appropriate supports when and where they need it to achieve the following outcomes:

To provide individuals with vision loss, healthcare navigation to navigate efficiently through the platform.

To improve the client's experience and wellbeing.

To enhance a client's capacity to remain independent for as long as possible.

Requirements

This position entails, but is not limited to the following general responsibilities:

Provide individualized support to clients and families applying for disability benefits, including understanding eligibility criteria, completing forms and coordinating documentation.

Assist clients with application tracking, follow-ups and appeals where needed.

Maintain accurate, up-to-date knowledge of benefit programs and share updates with the team and community stakeholders.

Participate in client satisfaction, program feedback and quality improvement efforts.

Monitor and provide proactive follow-up for clients to ensure ongoing collaboration across services/providers.

Ensures that all service-related activities provided are documented in the client health record following VLRC policies.

Engage with clients and families on available supports and services using a client-centered approach with cultural humility.

Develop and maintain strong professional relationships with external partners and referral sources following VLRC policies.

Participates in multi-disciplinary team meetings.

III. Qualifications
Knowledge and Skill Requirements

In-depth understanding of disability benefits programs (e.g. DTC, CDB)

Excellent verbal and written communication skills; strong ability to explain complex processes clearly.

Proficiency in case management systems, MS Office, and electronic health records.

Strong organizational, problem-solving, and advocacy skills.

Clinical expertise related to client centered philosophy, knowledge of intersectional equity principles and cultural safety practices.

Ability to prioritize tasks, and work independently or as part of a team.

Experience and Education

Post-secondary diploma in Social Services, Disability Studies, Community Work, or related field.

2+ years’ experience in client navigation, healthcare or social service systems.

Experience supporting people with disabilities, especially those with vision loss.

Lived or professional experience working with diverse populations, including Indigenous, 2

SLGBTQIA+, newcomers etc.

Certificate in Patient Navigation, trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing, or health equity would be an asset.

Work Environment

Willingness to work flexible hours.

Willingness to work in a variety of settings.

Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a remote or hybrid environment.

Benefits

At VLRC, your work has real impact. Join a team that empowers Canadians with vision loss to live independently, and where your growth, well-being, and contributions matter. We offer:

· Comprehensive benefits, including health, vision, dental, corporate discounts, and an employee and family assistance program

Flexible work arrangements, generous paid time off, and work-life balance initiatives

Career development through training, mentorship, and…