Position: Dementia Navigator
Location: Auckland, New Zealand
Contract Duration: 42 months (3.5 years) (with potential for extension based on funding availability)
Are you passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of individuals living with dementia? Pacific Dementia Māngalo (PDM) is seeking dedicated and empathetic individuals to join our team as Dementia Navigator. In this role, you will have the opportunity to provide vital support and guidance to individuals and their families within the Pacific community in Auckland, New Zealand.
About Pacific Dementia Māngalo (PDM) and Te Whatu Ora-Health New Zealand:
Pacific Dementia Māngalo is a new service created by the Aotearoa Tongan Health Workers Association Inc. t/a ‘Ākiheuho who has been contracted by Te Whatu Ora-Health New Zealand to pilot a comprehensive dementia post diagnostic support, dementia navigator service, and dementia awareness program for the Pacific community in Auckland. This initiative aims to enhance the well-being and quality of life for individuals living with dementia and their families. As a Dementia Navigator, you will play a crucial role in delivering family-centred support, navigating the complexities of dementia care, and raising awareness within the Pacific community.
Key Responsibilities:
- Family-Centred Support:
- Provide personalized support and guidance to individuals living with dementia and their families, helping them navigate the healthcare system and access appropriate services.
- Conduct comprehensive assessments to understand the unique needs and preferences of everyone, developing care plans in collaboration with the person and their family.
- Offer emotional support and practical advice to enhance the overall well-being of individuals and their caregivers.
- Navigation and Coordination:
- Assist individuals in accessing dementia-related services, such as medical appointments, support groups, respite care, and community resources.
- Coordinate with healthcare professionals, social service agencies, and community organizations to ensure seamless care and support for individuals and their families.
- Advocate for and empower individuals to make informed decisions regarding their care and support needs.
- Community Engagement and Awareness:
- Raise awareness about dementia within the Pacific community through educational workshops, community events, and collaborations with local organisations.
- Foster partnerships with community stakeholders to increase dementia-friendly practices and promote inclusive, supportive environments for individuals living with dementia.
- Contribute to the development and adaptation of dementia-related resources and educational materials for the Pacific community.
Qualifications and Experience:
- Relevant qualifications in healthcare, social work, psychology, or a related field are desirable.
- Experience working with individuals living with dementia, preferably within a community or healthcare setting.
- Knowledge and understanding of the cultural nuances and need of the Pacific community in Auckland.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and establish trust with individuals and their families.
- Strong problem-solving and advocacy skills, with the ability to navigate complex systems and connect individuals to appropriate resources.
- Compassion, empathy, and patience in supporting individuals and families affected by dementia.
- Must be able to speak one or more Pacific languages (i.e. Samoan, Tongan, Fijian, Cook Island, Tuvaluan, Tokelauan, Niuean, Solomon, Kiribati, and Vanuatuan)
How to Apply:
If you are a compassionate and dedicated professional looking to make a difference in the lives of individuals living with dementia, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your resume, along with a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you believe you are the ideal candidate for the position, to info@athwa.org.nz
Join our team at Pacific Dementia Māngalo and contribute to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by dementia in the Pacific community. Together, we can create a more dementia-inclusive society.
Application Deadline: 11th December 2023
Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview. The extension of the contract beyond 42 months will be subject to funding availability.
|P: +64 9 2766968 / 0800 4 ATHWA |E: info@athwa.org.nz |W: www.athwa.org.nz |A: 25 Princes Street, Otahuhu, PO Box 22336, Otahuhu, Auckland1640, New Zealand