Internship Experience at the Ministry of Social Services

Tell us about your role and the organization you interned with.

I worked with te Occupational Health and Safety unit, dedicated to ensuring both physical and psychological safety in the workplace, preventing injuries, and promoting overall well-being. During the internship, I have contributed to many meaningful initiatives that align with Ministry of Social Services' to creating as safe work environment.

My work includes tasks such as reviewing the violence protocol template - an Appendix of the Ministry of Social Services’ Violence Policy that guides employees in preventing and responding to real or potential violence situations in the workplace. I researched, developed and contributed to the risk assessment matrix of the Local Violence Protocol Template, and prepared safety talks and post-training interview questions for supervisors/managers of the Income Assistance Division as part of the violence in the workplace series (prevention, intervention and resolution).

In addition, I reviewed the Workplace Inspection Policy and developed a briefing note for it.

I also researched and delivered a safety moment presentation at the Safety Measures Working Group meeting and facilitated team-building activities for Program Support management on separate occasions.

What kind of projects did you undertake?

Currently, I am involved in several key projects, including following up with Co-Chairs from MSS’s 26 locations to ensure First Aid Kits comply with the OH&S Regulations 2020 and confirming their procurement through updated reports.

Other projects include developing winter survival kits, conducting statistical review, creating an evaluation plan for the Personal Emergency Response System (PERS), analyzing data from the recent MSS safety survey, and developing eight Safety Talk programs for supervisors and managers to be hosted on the Ministry’s internal website.

These projects have provided opportunities to further strengthen my communication, leadership, and analytical skills.

Share one highlight from the internship experience.

A highlight of my internship has been the opportunity to attend high-level meetings with ministry leaders, including the Executive Council meeting chaired by the Deputy Minister of Social Services, with Assistant Deputy Ministers and Executive Directors in attendance.

Such experiences have provided me with a unique perspective on how decisions are made at senior levels of government and they gave me an insight into the workings of the government.

I have also participated in meetings such as the Safety Champion Council meeting, Occupational Health and Safety Management Committee meetings, the Corporate Planning, Budgeting, and Accountability Forum (CPBAF), and Occupational Health Committee Co-Chair meetings.

These opportunities broadened my understanding of leadership roles and the strategic priorities of the Ministry.

Any final thoughts?

The JSGS internship program has been an incredibly enriching experience. It has not only provided me with practical skills but also allowed me to grow professionally while working alongside a talented and supportive team.