Tignish Senior’s Home has need for more staff

by Ruby Arsenault, Employment Coach/Facilitator with the Tignish Employment Resources (ER) Centre

Tignish Seniors Home Care Cooperative Ltd. is currently seeking to hire more staff for their 54-room residence in Tignish. This cooperative operates as a non-profit organization, owned and operated by its members and was established in 2001.

“We provide 24-hour supervision, home-cooked meals, activities, and entertainment,” says Manager Lorianne Keough.

“Once our student staff return to studies by early September, we are in need of staff once again. Students play a vital role each summer by providing care for our residents. But as summer winds down we are once again in recruitment mode.”

They are looking to hire in all departments:

• Caregivers
• Housekeeping/Cleaners
• Cooks
• Cook’s Assistants

“The demand is real, and we are open to applicants who want to work full-time, part-time, or casual. We are always in need of trained casual staff to cover or replace staff who take leave for maternity or sickness.

“We welcome applications from students, adults, semi-retired and retired individuals to join our amazing team and contribute to the day-to-day lives of our residents. This line of work has proven to be very rewarding, and we also welcome people who would like to volunteer.

“We are so grateful to the amazing people in our community who volunteer throughout the year to help serve meals, set up and clean the dining room, participate in entertainment, assist residents with playing bingo, and more. Not only is your time appreciated by the seniors, but it also helps alleviate some stress from staff and management. We welcome anyone who has a few hours to give us.”

Job requirements:

• Strong interest in working with seniors
• Compassionate and positive attitude
• Able to multitask and accept responsibility
• Food safety and first aid training would be an asset
• Willing to train and accept direction
• Ability to work as part of a team and independently

All hands-on training is provided in-house. New staff members are paid minimum wage until they have successfully completed training, which is usually two weeks in duration.

“We welcome students interested in working towards studying in the nursing field and enjoy being around seniors. Students can cover weekend shifts and a few hours during the evening.”

Lorianne says they are always updating their casual list for all departments at the facility. “We require casuals to cover sick days and other types of leave. We would love to provide training for anyone who may be interested in becoming a casual within our senior home.

“Basically, anyone with an interest or questions is welcome to contact me, and I will take the time to give them a tour of the facility and sign them up for training.

“We have been in operation now for over 20 years and we have amazing staff. Come see for yourself!”

Lorianne accepts resumés only in person. “I like to meet with the applicants firsthand. I am also available to answer any questions by phone at 902-882-4663.”