Respite Worker

**About us**

Empowered Academy is a leading provider of comprehensive and compassionate mental health services, autism support, and respite care. Our mission is to empower individuals and their families to thrive by addressing their unique needs and fostering a supportive environment for growth and well-being

**Responsibilities**:
**Care and Supervision**:Provide direct care and supervision to individuals with disabilities, medical conditions, or other special needs.
Ensure the safety and well-being of clients during their respite periods.

**Personal Care**:Assist with activities of daily living autism and various disabilities such as dressing, toileting, and grooming.

**Behavioral Support**:Implement behavior support plans as directed by supervisors or clinicians. Use positive reinforcement and appropriate techniques to manage challenging behaviors.

**Engagement and Activities**:Plan and engage individuals in meaningful and age-appropriate activities. Encourage social interaction, communication, and skill development.

**Emotional Support**:Offer emotional support and companionship to clients.
Create a supportive and empathetic environment to address emotional needs.

**Communication**:Maintain open and effective communication with clients and their families. Report any changes in behavior, health, or concerns to supervisors or healthcare providers.

**Documentation**:Keep accurate records of daily activities, care provided, and any incidents.
Complete required paperwork and documentation as per agency or organization guidelines.

**Respite Planning**:Collaborate with families and care teams to develop respite care plans.
Follow established care plans and adapt them as necessary.

**Safety and Emergency Response**:Be prepared to respond to emergencies and follow safety protocols.
Ensure the environment is safe and hazard-free.

**Team Collaboration**:Work collaboratively with other respite workers, caregivers, therapists, and healthcare professionals to provide holistic care.

**Cultural Competency**:Respect and consider the cultural backgrounds and preferences of clients and their families.

**Confidentiality**:Maintain strict confidentiality regarding client information and personal matters.

**Requirements**:
**. Education**:

- A high school diploma or equivalent is the minimum educational requirement. Post secondary in a social servie field is an asset

**Relevant Training and Certifications**:

- Completion of training programs related to caregiving, first aid, and CPR is an asset

**Experience**:

- Previous experience working with individuals with disabilities, special needs, or in a caregiving role is often preferred.
- Experience in behavior management and crisis intervention may be required for some positions.

**Background Check and Clearances**:

- Many employers require background checks, including criminal history checks and child abuse clearances, to ensure the safety of the individuals being cared for.

**Physical and Health Requirements**:

- Respite workers should be in good physical health, as the job may require lifting, assisting with mobility, and other physical tasks.

**Communication Skills**:

- Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, are crucial for interacting with clients, their families, and healthcare professionals.

**Patience and Empathy**:

- A compassionate and patient attitude is essential when working with individuals with special needs or disabilities.

**Problem-Solving Skills**:

- Respite workers should be able to adapt to various situations and find creative solutions to challenges that may arise.

**Flexibility**:

- The ability to work varying hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, may be necessary in this field.

**Job Type**: Part-time

Pay: $18.00-$22.00 per hour

**Benefits**:

- Casual dress

Schedule:

- Evening shift
- Monday to Friday
- Weekends as needed

Ability to commute/relocate:

- Kanata, ON K2K 1X7: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Work Location: In person