Homemaker

Life at Kensington Health  

At Kensington Health, we are proud to have built a community where people can bring their full selves to work. As a not-for-profit, we believe in the work we do every day. It's what motivates us, inspires, and propels our bold vision forward: a better life for everyone.  

Diversity is at the heart of who we are and at Kensington, we celebrate our differences, knowing that creating safe, inclusive, and equitable spaces in healthcare strengthens our bold vision: building a better life for everyone. Our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts are guided by our DEI Strategy as we continuously strive to offer equal opportunities for all.  

Our people are what make Kensington Health such a special place to work, learn, and grow and delivering exceptional health care to our community – and beyond – is what keeps people here for years. Interested in reimagining community-delivered care with us? Check out our open roles! 

Temporary Full-time: 6-month contract

Job Overview  

We are seeking a dedicated Homemaker to support clients in downtown Toronto who are aging at home or living with physical and cognitive challenges. This role involves providing housekeeping, meal prep, grocery support, and general in-home assistance while working independently in a variety of home environments.   

This is a solo role. You’ll be working without direct supervision, and must feel confident making decisions, following safety procedures, and navigating unpredictable situations with calm professionalism. You must see 3 clients a day for a minimum of two hours each and log in and out of each geo-location using our documentation software. 

Responsibilities  

• Perform general housekeeping duties including vacuuming, mopping, dusting, garbage removal, and bed-making to maintain a clean and safe living environment.  

• Thoroughly clean high-traffic areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, living rooms, and bedrooms, ensuring sanitation and hygiene standards are met.  

• Assist clients with meal preparation and grocery shopping, respecting dietary needs and preferences.  

• Wash, dry, fold, and organize laundry as requested by the client or outlined in the care plan.  

• Follow individualized care plans tailored to meet each client’s unique needs and preferences.  

• Provide meaningful companionship and engage clients in conversation, activities, and emotional support to reduce feelings of isolation and improve overall well-being.  

• Monitor and promptly report any significant changes in the client’s physical condition, behavior, or home environment to the appropriate supervisor.  

• Proactively identify and communicate any safety concerns or mental health issues to the care management team.  

• Maintain professional boundaries and always safeguard client confidentiality.  

• Travel between multiple client homes during the day (typically three visits per day) and adapt to varying home environments and client needs.  

• Accurately document attendance and service delivery using AlayaCare software in real-time.  

WORKING ENVIRONMENT   

• This role involves working independently in a wide variety of private homes. You may have:  

• Exposure to pests (e.g., cockroaches, bedbugs) or unsanitary conditions.  

• Clients who may be living with dementia, trauma, mental health conditions, or emotional dysregulation.  

• Occasional refusal of service, or unexpected behavioral changes.  

You must be comfortable:  

• De-escalating challenging interactions using trauma-informed approaches  

• Recognizing when a situation is unsafe and removing yourself appropriately  

• Contacting emergency services (e.g., EMS) if a client’s wellbeing is at serious risk  

• All staff are trauma-informed and are expected to follow personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety protocols consistently. 

Qualifications  

Required Skills and Abilities:  

• Strong interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence: ability to build rapport, show empathy, patience, and sensitivity to clients’ feelings and needs.  

• Excellent communication and reporting skills: clear, respectful verbal and written communication; careful listening; ability to document, share observations, follow up, escalate issues as needed.  

• Independent decision-making: able to assess situations in clients’ homes and take initiative when needed; prioritize tasks; adapt to changing circumstances without constant supervision.  

• Collaboration with support and navigation staff: work alongside Health Navigators, Day Program Manager and Operations Coordinator; align with the broader care plan; ensure smooth referrals and communication so client receives comprehensive support. (E.g. linking with resources, ensuring changes in condition are reported).  

• Emotional resilience and ability to stay calm under pressure: encountering stressful or urgent situations; remaining composed; responding safely and appropriately.  

• Independent Critical Thinking: In safety decisions, navigating unpredictable actions and circumstances.  

• Flexibility and adaptability: navigating changing environments (different homes, layouts, client needs); adjusting tasks and priorities; dealing with unexpected developments.  

• Physical stamina and strength: able to perform frequent movement (bending, kneeling, stairs), repetitive tasks; lift/carry loads up to 23kg (groceries, laundry) safely; work across multiple visits in a day.  

• Professional conduct / client-centered service: maintain confidentiality; respect client dignity; uphold boundaries; follow careplans; represent the organization well.  

• Observational skills and attention to detail: noticing subtle changes in behaviour, health, mood; catching safety hazards; ensuring high standards of cleanliness and hygiene.  

• Time management and organization: managing multiple visits per day; prioritizing tasks; ensuring reliable attendance; managing workload efficiently. 

Required Knowledge and Experience:  

• Recent or current experience working independently in a community environment. 

Required Professional Designation/Certificate:  

• High School Diploma.  

• PSW Certificate (this is a non-union position).  

• Crisis intervention training preferred.  

• GPA preferred.  

• Knowledge of Alayacare is an asset.  

• Non-Violent Crisis Intervention certification is an asset.