Respite Assistant

Who We Are

For more than 130 years, The Salvation Army has served people in need in communities across Canada and Bermuda. Building on our roots as a world-wide Christian church, each year we help more than 2 million people, providing necessities such as food, clothing and shelter. In addition, we support people experiencing unemployment, addiction and family challenges. We continually adapt and innovate to meet emerging needs and live out our mission, vision and values of hope, service, dignity and stewardship. As a faith- and values-based organization, we hire and serve people of all backgrounds and walks of life - there is a place for everyone to belong here.

Mission Statement

The Salvation Army exists to share the love of Jesus Christ, meet human needs and be a transforming influence in the communities of our world.

Job Description:

Position Purpose summary:  

Respite Support Staff provide care for children, youth and adults with a diagnosed Intellectual disability.   Services include Centre-Based Respite, Residential Care, Summer Programs and Day Programs.

Accountabilities:

Client Services:

• Responsible to ensure the needs of program participants are met i.e. physically, emotionally, medically, and behaviorally.
• Contribute to the planning and facilitation of recreation & leisure activities, volunteer opportunities and skill building opportunities appropriate to age, skill level, interests and goals.
• Advocate on behalf of the program participants to promote health and well-being.
• Provide personal care to participants as required.
• Provide intervention for any behavioural challenges.
• Liaise with parents, caregivers, volunteers, and community supports/partners as required. 
• Prepare and distribute meals, snacks/nourishments as outlined on the approved menu.
• Complete house maintenance duties as well as the general organization and maintenance of property and program supplies.
• Ensure proper recording in the daily log, shift change book, incident reports, restraint forms, etc.
• Report any identified needs to team members, Respite Program Supervisor and/or On –Call designate and parent/usual caregiver.

                                                                                                                     

Perform other position related duties as required.

The above responsibilities must be discharged in accordance with The Salvation Army’s Mission Statement, in a professional manner, exemplifying Christian standards of conduct.

This position is funded in part through the Canada Summer Jobs Program and the following represents the applicant criteria:

• be between 15 and 30 years of age at the start of the employment
• be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person whom refugee protection has been conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act for the duration of the employment; and,
• have a valid Social Insurance Number at the start of employment and be legally entitled to work in Canada in accordance with relevant provincial/territorial legislation and regulations. 
• Note: International students are not eligible participants. International students include anyone who is temporarily in Canada for studies and who is not a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person who has been granted refugee status in Canada.

Education, Qualifications and Certifications:

• Currently pursuing a related education in post-secondary studies (Social Services, Human Services or Developmental Service Worker, Personal Support Worker).
• Alternative combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Experience and Skilled Knowledge Requirements:

• A minimum of three (3) months of prior related experience in a social service setting and some experience in providing direct care to children, youth or adults who have intellectual disabilities; dealing with crises is required.
• Current Non-Violent Crisis Intervention Certification.
• Current First Aid & CPR Certification.
• Some travel is associated with this position. 
• Ability to lift/move up to 50 lbs.

Skills and Capabilities:

• Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality and exercise good judgement.
• Ability to work independently and participate as an active and responsible team member in a cooperative team environment.
• Participate in mandatory orientation training, on-going professional development and training.
• Participate in regular supervision and performance appraisal process.
• Ensure that all certifications are maintained as required.
• Represent the organization in a positive, professional and engaging manner.
• Exhibit good listening skills, have strong oral/written communication skills and respect authority.
• Self-motivated/disciplined.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, integrity, and adaptability.
• Attention to detail, problem solving and analytical skills.
• Lead by example, by demonstrating a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn and be flexible in the face of change.
• Proficiency in all Microsoft Office products is required - i.e. Word, Excel, Publisher, PowerPoint; Email and Internet etc.
• Fluent French verbal and written communication skills are an asset.
• Valid Ontario Class “G” or “G2” Driver’s License is preferred with a current original copy of driver’s abstract, which is satisfactory to The Salvation Army, in its sole discretion.
• Provide an original copy of a background check with Vulnerable Sector Screening including a Broad Record Check that is satisfactory to The Salvation Army, in its sole discretion, is required. 
• May require screening through The Salvation Army Abuse Registry.
• Develop an understanding and support for the mission and purpose of The Salvation Army in Canada and its implications as related to position responsibilities.

Normal location of work:  1340 Dundas Street, London ON N5W 3B6  

Compensation:

The target hiring range for this position is $20.09 to $25.11 with a maximum of $30.13.

Placement in the salary range will be based on factors such as market conditions, internal equity, and candidate experience, skills, and qualifications relevant to the role.

The Salvation Army will provide reasonable accommodation upon request. Please email [email protected] if you have a need for any accommodation and we will be pleased to discuss this with you.