Personal Support Worker (PSW), Assisted Living - Part-time 0.6

Requisition Details:
Employment Status: Permanent, Part-time (0.6 FTE)
Program Name: Assisted Living
Number of Bi-Weekly Hours: 45
Work Schedule: Days, Includes Weekends
On Call: Yes
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 health care team in meeting the needs of clients to attain an optimal level of independence and well-being. They ensure the safety and security of clients, maintain a clean, tidy program environment, build trusting relationships with clients and caregivers, and participate in the planned social and recreational activities as appropriate.

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:

• Observes and evaluates the client’s or family's home, personal situation, and care plan to determine if any changes are required and whether the client’s and family’s needs have been met. Advises supervisor accordingly.
• Contributes to the development of the personal support care plan under the direction of the Personal Support Program Manager.
• Implements changes to the care plan under the guidance of the Manager for safety, liability, and financial reasons.
• Reports verbally to the immediate supervisor or Personal Support Program Manager any changes in the client’s or family's personal support needs.
• Performs personal support tasks reflecting the needs of the client and family, including light cleaning, meal preparation, and monitoring household safety.
• Provides personal care as directed by the Personal Support Program Manager or immediate supervisor.
• Provides simple bedside care, where required, under the direction of a nurse.
• Provides respite care to clients as required.
• Supports clients’ families by providing child care as required.
• Organizes daily activities, setting priorities for personal support and other activities.
• Completes daily call checks and other forms as required.
• Assesses the client's pattern of communication and ability to relate.
• Communicates with appropriate members of the health team regarding the management of the client's or family's needs.
• Functions and reports in compliance with Occupational Health and Safety legislation.
• Functions in accordance with VON's risk management policies to promote client safety.
• Other duties as assigned.

External and Internal Relationships:

• Engages frequently with the immediate supervisor or the Personal Support Program Manager on needed changes to client plans.

Education, Designations and Experience:

• Must have a Personal Support Worker certification or Developmental Services Worker diploma.
• Must have a minimum of 2 years experience working as a PSW or DSW.
• Must have a current Standard First Aid Certificate or CPR level C Certificate.
• Some experience supporting individuals with dementia and responsive behaviours is preferred.
• Gentle Persuasive Approaches Certificate is preferred.
• Experience working with elderly or individuals living with a disability.

Skill Requirements:

• Strong communication skills, both verbally and written.
• Able to communicate effectively with clients and families.
• Good assessment skills.
• Awareness of community resources.
• Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team or independently.
• Able to take direction well.
• Ability to adjust to different social and economic environments.
• The capacity to adhere to strict confidentiality.

Other:

• Must have access to a personal vehicle for work and possess a current driver’s license and proof of vehicle insurance.
• A current and original copy of a satisfactory Criminal Records Check.
• A Vulnerable Sector Search and/or a Child Abuse Registry Check may be required.
• Available to work flexible hours.
• The use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be required.

Working conditions and physical demands: This role requires a detail-oriented approach in a dynamic environment, with physical activity including lifting, carrying, bending, reaching, kneeling, and other movements. Individuals in the role are required to walk, sit, stand, and climb stairs throughout the day.