Respite Support Counsellor

POSITION SUMMARY

The Respite Services role is dedicated to meeting and exceeding performance standards while providing direct care and support to individuals within the program. This position ensures that individuals' basic rights to safety, security, emotional well-being, and access to essential services are upheld. The role also involves maintaining a safe and well-equipped living environment, promoting individual development and community participation, and safeguarding personal dignity. Additionally, the position contributes to long- and short-term planning, represents the agency within the community, and consistently implements the agency's policies and procedures to support its mission and goals. As a Developmental Support Worker, you will play a crucial role in providing personalized care, implementing behaviour management strategies, and promoting the overall well-being of individuals with developmental disabilities and challenging behaviours.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Duties:

To ensure that everyone’s basic needs are properly met and serviced by assisting, while on shift, to:

• Ensure nutritional meals are provided by using a menu plan guided by Canada's Food Guide.
• Ensure individuals are dressed appropriately for the occasion and the weather.
• Ensure and model appropriate group behaviour.
• Ensure a safe environment as per the Daily Operating Policies and Procedures Manual.
• Provide supervision of individuals as needed for activities away from the respite location.
• Ensure that everyone completes their respective chores and responsibilities and aid as required.
• Teach and supervise academic, social, and life skills.
• Ensure that the day-to-day routines, programs, and any other assigned duties are completed.
• Develop and complete special assignments in key areas (i.e., nutritional planning, community integration, etc.) as assigned.
• Complete assessments, develop programs, implement, monitor, and review programs as required for individuals by using the approved Individual Support Planning Process.
• Ensure successful community integration by providing regular opportunities and support to participate effectively.

COUNSELLING

• Model and demonstrate appropriate behaviour.
• Teach and maintain academic, social living, and self-care skills.
• Show empathy and concern for individuals’ needs and problems.
• Respond to inappropriate behaviour in a nonjudgmental, non-punitive manner.
• Use positive reinforcement to establish appropriate behaviours.
• Assist individuals in problem-solving, offering alternatives and consequences.
• Support the implementation of therapeutic and Individual Support Plan programs.

HEALTH AND SAFETY:

• Administer medications and first aid as needed.
• Maintain accurate medical records.
• Follow safety and maintenance duties per policies.
• Ensure cleanliness and safety to prevent accidents.
• Complete daily and monthly safety checks and fire drills.

FINANCES:

• Record expenditures and manage petty cash transactions.
• Handle and document individuals' spending money during respite stays

ADMINISTRATION:

• Communicate shift events, progress, and incidents to staff and the site supervisor.
• Participate in meetings and assist in maintaining a proper home environment.
• Promote agency programs and contribute to long- and short-term planning for respite services.

SHIFTS:

• Work all required shifts, including weekends and weekday evenings, as part of the respite program.
• Be flexible to work in various areas within Community Living Sarnia-Lambton.

Position Requirements:

• Developmental service work or related certifications from a recognized institution.
• Minimum one year of experience with developmental disabilities in a community setting.
• Certifications: Standard First Aid, CPR, CPI (Non-Violent Crisis Intervention).
• Strong communication, teamwork, and leadership skills.
• Valid driver’s license and own vehicle.
• Ability to work flexible shifts, including weekends.
• Willingness to provide a driver's abstract and Vulnerable Sector Check check.

CLSL has an accommodation process in place and provides accommodation for employees with disabilities. If you require specific accommodation because of a disability, please contact Human Resources so that arrangements can be made for the appropriate accommodation.

While we thank all applicants for their interest, only those selected will be contacted.

Community Living Sarnia-Lambton values fairness, inclusion, and a personal approach to candidate selection. Artificial intelligence tools may be utilized during the recruitment process to assist with administrative efficiency and workflow management. However, all application reviews and hiring decisions are conducted directly by our Human Resources Team.