Personal Support Worker (PSW), Respite - Casual

VON Canada; Collingwood; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

VON Canada is seeking a Personal Support Worker to join their Respite and Enrichment Program. The role involves providing essential personal support services to clients, collaborating with a healthcare team, and ensuring optimal client well-being. Ideal candidates will have a high school diploma and relevant certifications, along with strong communication skills and a compassionate approach to care.

Qualifications

• High school diploma; secondary education preferred.
• CCA Certification required in Nova Scotia.
• Current First Aid or CPR Level C certificate if applicable.

Responsibilities

• Provide personal support and homemaking services to clients.
• Develop and implement personalized care plans.
• Assist with daily living activities including hygiene and meal preparation.

Skills

Strong verbal and written communication skills

Effective communication with clients and families

Good assessment skills

Ability to work independently or in a team

Adherence to confidentiality standards

Education

High school diploma; secondary education preferred

CCA Certification

Certificate in Home Support Worker (Level I, II, III)

Current Standard First Aid or CPR Level C certificate

Job description

Requisition Details:

Employment Status: Casual

Program Name: Respite and Enrichment Program

Work Schedule: Days, Evenings, Weekends

On Call: No

Existing Vacancy: Yes – we’re currently hiring candidates for an existing vacancy in this position

Job Summary:

The Personal Support Worker provides personal support and homemaking services to clients and families within the framework of VON policies, procedures, and standards. The PSW collaborates with members of the healthcare team to meet the needs of clients and help them attain an optimal level of independence and well-being.

This position is eligible for the $3.00 per hour wage enhancement from the Ontario Government for all hours spent directly caring for clients.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Observe and evaluate the client’s or family’s home, personal situation, and care plan to determine if any changes are needed, and advise the supervisor accordingly.
2. Contribute to the development of the personal support care plan under the guidance of the Personal Support Program Manager, using information from the funder, manager, and client or family.
3. Implement changes to the care plan for safety, liability, and financial reasons under the manager’s guidance.
4. Report any changes in the client’s or family’s needs or home situation that necessitate a change in the care plan.
5. Perform personal support tasks such as light cleaning, meal preparation, clothing care, shopping, and safety monitoring, tailored to the client and family’s needs.
6. Provide personal care including assistance with walking, stairs, bed mobility, eating, dressing, and hygiene as directed.
7. Assist with bedside care under the supervision of a nurse if required.
8. Provide respite care as needed.
9. Support families by providing child care to allow for family relief.
10. Organize daily activities and prioritize support tasks under the direction of the supervisor.
11. Complete daily call checks and other documentation to ensure effective service operation.
12. Assess communication patterns and relational abilities of clients.
13. Communicate with the healthcare team regarding client needs and inform supervisors of any concerns.
14. Comply with Occupational Health and Safety legislation, regulations, and VON policies.
15. Follow risk management policies to promote client safety.
16. Perform other duties as assigned.

External and Internal Relationships:

• Engage regularly with the supervisor or program manager for updates and changes to client plans.

Education, Designations, and Experience:

• High school diploma; secondary education preferred.
• CCA Certification required in Nova Scotia.
• Certificate in Home Support Worker (Level I, II, III), Personal Support Worker program, or Health Care Aide.
• Current Standard First Aid or CPR Level C certificate, if applicable.
• Experience with household management, elderly or ill individuals, or children.

Skill Requirements:

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Effective communication with clients and families demonstrating respect, empathy, and understanding.
• Good assessment skills and awareness of community resources.
• Ability to work independently or in a team.
• Ability to follow directions and adapt to different social and economic environments.
• Adherence to confidentiality standards.

Other Requirements:

• Access to a personal vehicle, valid driver’s license, and proof of insurance.
• Satisfactory Criminal Records Check; Vulnerable Sector Search and/or Child Abuse Registry Check may be required.
• Availability to work flexible hours.
• Ability to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Working conditions involve physical activity such as lifting, bending, reaching, and walking, with an emphasis on body mechanics.