Settlement workers fulfill various functions at various times. In this model of a long-term, two-way settlement process, both sides require services. In the initial phase of contact with the settlement worker, the immigrant needs orientation to the new environment and access to housing, jobs and services.
The settlement worker's role as a resource person and information specialist is critical at this point. At the same time, the community needs assistance in reaching and communicating with the immigrant. The settlement worker assists by providing access to clients, client escort, and linguistic and cultural interpretation to faciliate the interaction.
As time passes the newcomers' immediate needs are taken care of and the community/society is able to utilize the new immigrants as employees, taxpayers and consumers.
... More long-term issues of adjustment for both sides come into play
The settlement worker may be called upon to do casework counselling with immigrant families experiencing breakdown, or to advocate for clients caught in the intricacies of bureaucratic systems. At this point the established service institutions (community agencies, etc.) depend on settlement workers to cover gaps in their services, such as the lack of culturally appropriate counselling and as troubleshooters when interactions with immigrant service-users become complicated.
Are you an Immigrant or Newcomer to Canada?
Settlement workers are available at Kitchener Main and Forest Hights Branch, and Waterloo Main and McCormick Branch libraries.