Developmental Service Worker (DSW)

• Develops and demonstrates an empathetic working relationship with the client for whom he or she is hired to work with;
• Develops, implements, and evaluates Personal Support Plans with the client’s involvement to enhance their overall life skills and quality of life.
• Identifies client’s need for specialized services; through consultations and referrals, arranges appointments, transportation and supportive accompaniment;
• Arranges appointments, transportation and supportive accompaniment and completes follow up documentation as necessary for specialized services
• Supports members in identified areas of work skills, recreational skills, social skill and life skills, and when necessary, assists members with personal hygiene matters
• Administers and records prescribed medication as per instructions from a medical practitioner and follows the Facility assigned to work and MSHHSI Medication Policies and Procedures.
• Communicate any medical needs of the client to the appropriate personnel, applies first aid as required and completes written follow-up documentation.
• Provides feedback regarding member’s general health and safety issues to the Program Supervisor and completes documentation as necessary.
• Orders, administers and records prescribed medications as per instruction from a medical practitioner.
• Ensures the client’s health, safety, and welfare and independence by completing and involving the member with general house cleaning, grocery and supply shopping, and the preparation of meals and laundry as necessary.
• Assists in organizing leisure activities and ensuring community integration for all members in accordance with their needs and interests.
• Transports and/or facilitates transportation to day program, family visits, community outings and medical appointments.
• Performs other related duties such as balancing petty cash, vehicle maintenance, completion of fire drills, facilitating observation shifts and assisting with orientation of new members, staff, students, and volunteers.

• Proof of completion of a Developmental Service Diploma Program from a recognised Community College
• Demonstrates a commitment to care for individuals with developmental disabilities, or physical disabilities in a supportive role
• Must have current valid CPR and/or First Aid Training plus CPI Training ( Non-Violent Crisis Prevention Intervention)
• Clear Vulnerable Sector Criminal Record Check (valid within the last 6 months)
• Experience working in community mental health field is considered an asset
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and to problem-solve situations during high stress, medically challenged clients, while maintaining a calm and nurturing environment
• Provide consistent, supportive interactions and activities to client, in keeping with evidence based behaviour plans
• Provide direct assistance with symptom management
• Must be available to work days, evenings, weekend shifts and at some homes overnights when needed
• Demonstrated flexibility in taking shifts
• Desire and proven ability to work as an effective team player
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal)
• Ability to carry out behaviour modification and/or medical procedures as required
• Computer skills required
• WHMIS Certification within the preceding 12 months
• Valid G licence (preferred)
• Punctual and reliable Current CPR and First Aid certification is a definite asset
• Must be available to work on the weekends or rotational weekends

The Developmental Service Worker will not function in any manner viewed as the Practice of Nursing according to the Regulated Health Professions Act. Specifically, the DSW will not administer medications, take physician’s orders or perform procedures requiring the training, knowledge and skill of a Nurse (RN or RPN).