Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Support Provider Database and how does it work?

The Support Provider Database is a provincially driven program that provides a free service to families who have a child between the ages of 0-18 with an intellectual and/or physical disability who are looking to connect with a respite provider. Families complete a profile of their child’s needs and the Respite Resource Coordinator provides them with profiles of pre-screened Direct Support Providers. It is then up to the family to do their own screening, interviewing and subsequent hiring/contracting if the provider meets their needs.

How do I register?

Simply complete the online Family Registration Form, selecting Sudbury & Manitoulin under Communities, to apply. There is also an option to complete a Family Registration Form on paper, however the online method is most expedient.

What happens after I register?

After you register, you may receive a phone call from the Respite Resource Coordinator to clarify the information in your profile. Alternatively, the Coordinator may email you directly with several Direct Support Provider profiles and the Family Information Package, which contains detailed information re: interviewing and hiring/contracting your respite provider, a sample contract, and more.

Are Direct Support Providers employees of the Support Provider Database?

No, Direct Support Providers are not employees of respiteservices.com, the Support Provider Database, or the host agency (Children’s Community Network). We facilitate the connection between families and Direct Support Providers and the families independently decide whether to hire or contract a provider.

Are Direct Support Providers able to view my profile?

No. Your privacy is very important to us, therefore your profile is never made available to providers. It is only viewed by the Respite Resource Coordinator as needed to match you with available providers in your area. You can however choose to post a Classified Ad with limited information which would be visible to providers – this can increase your likelihood of connecting with a respite provider.

How are Direct Support Providers screened?

Direct Support Providers supply a resume, attend an appointment to complete a screening questionnaire, complete a Police Vulnerable Sector Check, sign an oath of confidentiality and attend an orientation session facilitated by the Respite Resource Coordinator. The Coordinator also speaks with three of their references before finalizing their registration with the Support Provider Database. Direct Support Providers have a range of backgrounds, qualifications, and skills which are detailed on their profiles.

Do I need to screen potential respite providers?

Although Direct Support Providers are screened before being added to the Support Provider Database, it is always recommended that families screen providers to their own satisfaction prior to working with them. This may include conducting their own interview, verifying references directly, and requesting an updated Police Vulnerable Sector check.

Is my Direct Support Provider an employee or an independent contractor?

When families hire/contract the services of a respite provider it is important to understand the status of the working relationship they are entering into, whether it is employee or contractor. The Government of Canada’s Determining the Employee/Employer Relationship guide may provide some insight, or you may wish to seek legal counsel to help make the determination.

How much should I pay my Direct Support Provider?

The appropriate rate of pay varies and is negotiated between the family and the respite provider. As a guide, the average rate of pay is between $15 and $25 an hour and is typically dependent on the needs of the child and the duties and responsibilities of the provider. For example, if they are mainly providing companionship we would expect the rate of pay to be lower than that of someone who is providing total care including bathing, feeding and/or therapy.

How are Direct Support Providers paid?

Direct Support Providers are paid by the family, either out-of-pocket, with government funding such as SSAH or ACSD or other funding sources such as Direct Funded Respite.

Do Direct Support Providers use their own vehicles?

This information can be found on the Direct Support Provider’s profile. It is recommended that you confirm that your respite provider has suitable liability coverage included with their vehicle insurance if the use of their vehicle is a requirement for you.

Can I hire/contract more than one Direct Support Provider at a time?

Absolutely! Many families work with multiple respite providers to better suit their schedules and to better meet their needs.

If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.