WRHA Community Health Services Is Now Hiring Home Support Worker – Winnipeg, MB

Job details

Location: Winnipeg, MB
Salary: $20–$22 an hour
Job type: Full Time , Part time
Shift/Hours: Morning, night, overnight

Grow your career in the Winnipeg Health Region! Our team provides a spectrum of health care services through an integrated network of sites, services and organizations. We’re united by a shared commitment to excellent and equitable health care.

Position Overview

Under the general supervision of the Resource Coordinator, the Home Support Worker acts as a member of the healthcare team, assisting with patient/client care and providing basic supportive care as directed. The Home Support Worker demonstrates a commitment to the vision, values, goals, and objectives of the WRHA and the Home Care Program.

Experience

• Previous patient and/or client care experience preferred.
• Previous experience with housekeeping, laundry, meal preparation preferred.
• Satisfactory employment record required.

Education (Degree/Diploma/Certificate)

• Minimum Grade 10 education, Manitoba standards, required.

Certification/Licensure/Registration

• Valid driver’s license and vehicle required.

Qualifications and Skills

Knowledge of:
Information and/or training will be provided within the probation period for the following:

• Personal Health Information Act (PHIA), Workplace Hazardous Material Information System (WHMIS) and Principles of
• Routine Practices (Universal Precautions).
• Regional and Program policies and procedures.
• Roles and responsibilities of members of the healthcare team
• General skills and ability to perform all tasks and responsibilities relevant to the duties of the position.
• Ability to organize and prioritize assigned workload.
• Ability to recognize and pursue self-development opportunities.
• Effective English verbal and written communication skills.
• Preference will be given to those applicants competent in an Indigenous language and/or knowledge in Aboriginal
• customs, traditions and values.
• Ability to respond to a variety of simultaneous demands.
• Ability to perform as a team member and seek assistance as necessary.

Physical Requirements

• Position involves extensive physical activity such as lifting, bending.
• Must be in good physical and mental health.
• Position will be exposed to environmental factors such as pet dander and residual smoke.
• May encounter aggressive and/or agitated clients/visitors/staff.
• Will include travel between clients with unpredictable driving conditions or potential inclement weather.
• May encounter home environments that could have congested spaces, uneven surfaces (both inside and outside the home environment).
• Ability to travel between assignments in a community area to several private homes of clients within Winnipeg and
• surrounding areas and to adapt to changes in scheduling on short notice required.
• This position is also subject to TB Immunization or Tuberculin testing as per WRHA policy.

This position requires a current satisfactory Criminal Records Check (including Vulnerable Sector Search), Child Abuse Registry Check and Adult Abuse Registry Check as conditions of employment. The successful candidate will be responsible for any service charges incurred. A security check is considered current if it was obtained no more than six (6) months prior to the start of employment.

Please note that an employee is not permitted to hold two or more positions across the WRHA legal entity that combine to equal more than 1.0 EFT. The WRHA legal entity includes Churchill Health Centre, Deer Lodge Centre, Grace Hospital, Middlechurch Home of Winnipeg, Pan Am Clinic, River Park Gardens, Victoria General Hospital, WRHA corporate programs, and WRHA community health services.

Interviewed candidates may be called upon to participate in a skills assessment.

Any application received after the closing time will not be included in the competition.

We welcome applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available upon request during the assessment and selection process.

What skills and qualities are important for a Home Support Worker?

Skills and qualities that are important for a Home Support Worker include:

1. Empathy and Compassion: Home Support Workers should possess a deep sense of empathy and compassion for the individuals they support. They should be able to understand and connect with the unique needs and emotions of their clients.
2. Communication Skills: Effective communication is crucial for Home Support Workers to interact with clients, their families, and other healthcare professionals. They should be able to listen actively, express themselves clearly, and provide information in a compassionate and understandable manner.
3. Patience and Flexibility: Home Support Workers often work with individuals who have complex needs or conditions that require patience and understanding. They should be adaptable to changing circumstances, able to handle unexpected situations, and maintain a calm and patient demeanor.
4. Personal Care Skills: Depending on the specific role and responsibilities, Home Support Workers may need to assist clients with personal care tasks such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting. Having the necessary skills and knowledge to perform these tasks with sensitivity and respect is essential.
5. Observation and Reporting: Being observant and detail-oriented is important for Home Support Workers to monitor the health and well-being of their clients. They should be able to recognize changes in behavior, physical condition, or any other signs that may require attention. Accurate and timely reporting of these observations is vital for providing appropriate care.
6. Time Management and Organizational Skills: Home Support Workers often have multiple clients and tasks to attend to within a given time frame. Strong time management and organizational skills are necessary to prioritize tasks, plan schedules efficiently, and ensure that all responsibilities are fulfilled in a timely manner.
7. Problem-Solving Abilities: Home Support Workers may encounter various challenges while providing care in a home setting. They should have the ability to think critically, make informed decisions, and effectively solve problems that may arise during their work.
8. Respect for Privacy and Confidentiality: Maintaining confidentiality and respecting the privacy of clients and their families is essential. Home Support Workers must adhere to ethical guidelines and legal requirements regarding the privacy and confidentiality of client information.
9. Physical Stamina: The role of a Home Support Worker can be physically demanding, requiring prolonged periods of standing, walking, lifting, and assisting clients with mobility. Having good physical stamina and the ability to perform tasks safely and without causing harm to oneself or the client is important.
10. Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusiveness: Home Support Workers may work with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds and with various beliefs and values. Having cultural sensitivity and being inclusive in their approach allows them to provide person-centered care and respect individual differences.

It’s worth noting that the specific skills and qualities required for a Home Support Worker may vary depending on the specific context, the nature of the clients’ needs, and any additional training or certifications required by the employer or regulatory bodies in the respective region.

What education and certification are required to become a Home Support Worker?

The education and certification requirements to become a Home Support Worker can vary depending on the region and the specific employer. In some cases, formal education may not be mandatory, but having relevant training and certifications can enhance job prospects and professional competence. Here are some common educational pathways and certifications:

1. High School Diploma: A high school diploma or equivalent is typically the minimum educational requirement for entry-level positions as a Home Support Worker. It provides a foundational level of education and demonstrates basic literacy and numeracy skills.
2. Post-Secondary Education: While not always mandatory, some employers may prefer candidates with post-secondary education in healthcare, social work, or related fields. Obtaining a certificate, diploma, or degree in fields such as Personal Support Worker (PSW), Healthcare Assistant, Home Health Aide, or Community Support Worker can provide specialized training and knowledge.
3. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA): Some regions may require Home Support Workers to have a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification or a similar designation. CNAs receive training in basic nursing skills, patient care, and other essential competencies.
4. First Aid and CPR Certification: Home Support Workers are often required to have valid First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certifications. These certifications ensure that workers are prepared to respond effectively in emergency situations and provide immediate assistance if needed.
5. Additional Training: Employers or specific care agencies may provide additional training programs or workshops for Home Support Workers. These training opportunities can focus on topics such as personal care techniques, infection control, medication administration, dementia care, and specialized care for individuals with disabilities or specific health conditions.
6. Background Checks and Vulnerable Sector Screening: Depending on the region and the employer’s policies, Home Support Workers may be required to undergo background checks, including vulnerable sector screenings, to ensure the safety and well-being of clients. These checks typically involve criminal record checks to assess suitability for working with vulnerable populations.

It’s important to note that the specific education and certification requirements can vary significantly based on the local regulations, employer preferences, and the level of care being provided. It’s advisable to research the requirements specific to your region and consult local healthcare or employment agencies for accurate and up-to-date information.

Who can apply to this job?

The employer accepts applications from:

• Canadian citizens and permanent or temporary residents of Canada.
• Other candidates with or without a valid Canadian work permit.

How to apply
Online: Apply On Company WebSite

What is the work environment like for Home Support Worker?

What is the work environment like for Home Support Worker?

The work environment for Home Support Workers can vary depending on the specific setting in which they provide care. Here are a few common work environments:

1. Client’s Home: Home Support Workers often provide care and assistance directly in the client’s home. This can involve working in different types of residences, such as houses, apartments, or assisted living facilities. The work environment is typically the client’s personal living space, and the worker must adapt to the conditions and layout of each home.
2. Healthcare Agencies: Some Home Support Workers are employed by healthcare agencies or home care companies. In such cases, they may work with multiple clients in different locations throughout the day. These agencies may have offices where workers can report for assignments, receive training, and communicate with supervisors.
3. Residential Care Facilities: Home Support Workers may also work in residential care facilities, such as group homes, long-term care facilities, or hospices. These settings provide care and support to individuals who require more intensive assistance due to physical or cognitive impairments. The work environment may involve working in shared spaces with other healthcare professionals.
4. Community-Based Programs: Some Home Support Workers participate in community-based programs that aim to support individuals in their own communities. These programs may involve providing assistance to clients during community outings, social activities, or appointments outside the home. The work environment can be diverse, ranging from public spaces to community centers or recreational facilities.
5. Client’s Family Environment: In certain cases, Home Support Workers may provide care in the homes of family members or relatives who are caring for a loved one. This work environment can vary depending on the family’s living arrangements and the available resources within the home.

Regardless of the specific work environment, Home Support Workers should be prepared for a dynamic and sometimes unpredictable setting. They may need to adapt to different home environments, be flexible with schedules, and interact with clients and their families in a respectful and professional manner. The work often involves physically demanding tasks, such as assisting with personal care, supporting mobility, and performing household chores. Effective communication and collaboration with clients, their families, and other healthcare professionals are also key aspects of the work environment for Home Support Workers.