Therapeutic Recreation Assistant

CUPE

Job Title: Therapeutic Recreation Assistant

Status: Temporary Full Time

Department: Recreation

Program: Healthy Aging

8,12 Hour Shifts, days,evenings,weekends Schedule (Subject to Change)

Location: Lakeridge Health Whitby

Wage Schedule: $ $36.160 per hour

Posting Reference: subsequent)

This position is open to all qualified CUPE staff throughout Lakeridge Health commencing 25 November 2025 and closing at 11:59 pm on 28 November

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Under the direction of the Activities Consultant, the Therapeutic Recreation Assistant is responsible for the direct provision of recreation and leisure programming in order to enhance quality of life for patients. The Therapeutic Recreation Assistant will also work with the Recreation and Leisure Programmer to plan and evaluate the recreation and leisure program that is provided to patients and residents.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• A post-secondary diploma in Recreation and Leisure, Therapeutic Recreation, Kinesiology or equivalent combination of education and experience providing recreation programming to seniors with various physical and cognitive impairments or limitations;
• Eligible for registration or a member in good standing with Therapeutic Recreation Ontario is preferred
• Previous experience providing recreation programming to seniors with various physical and cognitive impairments or limitations
• Experience in Geriatrics, Cognitive Support, Palliative Care, and Rehabilitation;
• Advanced understanding of dementia and a thorough understanding of the concept of "Responsive Behaviours" and behavioural expression as a form of communication
• Proven experience in group facilitation;
• Sound knowledge of motivational strategies to optimize a patient's participation and performance;
• Demonstrated experience developing adaptations to recreation activities appropriate to various disabilities;
• Knowledge of various recreation and leisure interventions appropriate to patient groups
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills;
• Above average interpersonal skill, organizational and problem-solving skills;
• Experience working in a multidisciplinary and inter-professional setting and ability to work both independently and interdependently;
• Must have initiative, enthusiasm and high energy;
• Must be flexible and able to adapt quickly to patients' needs and abilities;
• Must have a satisfactory performance record;
• Demonstrated commitment to our core values of Inclusion, Compassion, Innovation, Teamwork and Joy;
• Demonstrated understanding of and commitment to Lakeridge Health's comprehensive safety programs and practices including staff, patient and environmental safety and participation in regular in-service in this area; and
• Proven good attendance record with capability of maintaining the same standard.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

The terms and conditions of employment are in accordance with the Collective Agreement between the Hospital and C.U.P.E Local

Successful External applicants must provide a satisfactory Criminal Investigation Reference for the vulnerable sector, dated within the past six (6) months.

Accommodation will be provided in all parts of the recruitment and assessment process in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Applicants need to make their needs known in advance.

At Lakeridge Health we value inclusion and diversity. We are committed to fostering a culture that is respectful, inclusive and accessible and to employing a workforce that is representative of the diverse community we provide services to. As an equal opportunity employer we welcome applications from all qualified applicants.

Lakeridge Health is committed to providing a safe and healthy work environment for all team members and patients. New Lakeridge Health team members will be required to complete a Pre-employment Health Assessment as a condition of employment.