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.

What are the experience and educational requirements for Direct Support Providers?

Direct Support Providers have a range of skills and educational backgrounds. Whether your qualifications meet a family's needs is ultimately determined by the family who may choose to work with you. Any specialized certification and training, such as First Aid/CPR and ABA is considered an asset.

Is a driver’s licence and access to a vehicle required?

While not required, respite providers with a valid driver's licence and access to a vehicle may have more opportunities to be matched with families. Ultimately, it is up to the family to decide whether transportation in a vehicle will be required when providing support.

What are the steps required to register with the Support Provider Database?

The first step in the screening process is completing the Online Respite Provider Application form. Once received, you will be contacted to schedule an appointment to complete a screening questionnaire and will be provided with a series of consents and releases for you to sign. You will be required to provide a resume, at least 3 references, a clear Police Vulnerable Sector Check current within 6 months. Lastly, you will be required to attend a program orientation session to finalize your registration with the Support Provider Database.

How long is the registration process?

The amount of time required to meet all screening requirements varies significantly, from a week to a couple of months, depending on multiple factors. A provider who is motivated to complete the required steps and provide the required information as soon as possible should not experience delays in becoming registered with the Support Provider Database. The verification of reference can also cause delays, therefore be sure to advise your references that they will be contacted.

How are the hours and rate of pay determined?

The total number of hours that you can anticipate depends entirely on the family(ies) that you are working with. Working with multiple families will increase your total number of hours. The rate of pay also varies and is negotiated between yourself and the family. 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.

Am I self-employed, an employee of the family, or an employee of respiteservices.com?

Direct Support Providers are notemployees of respiteservices.com, the Support Provider Database, or the host agency (Children’s Community Network). When a family chooses you as a respite provider it is important to understand the status of the working relationship you 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.

Will I be reimbursed for any mileage or expenses?

Reimbursement of mileage and other out-of-pocket expenses is negotiated between the Direct Support Provider and the family. Providers should always establish a clear understanding of how these expenses are to be reimbursed prior to providing support and incurring any expenses.

Can I view the profiles of families who are looking for respite?

Family profiles contain confidential information and are never shared with providers. You can however view our Family Classified Ads, which are submitted by families who are currently looking to contract a Direct Support Provider.

Is there a significant need for respite providers in the Sudbury & Manitoulin region?

The Children’s Community Network provides respite funding to hundreds of families of children with disabilities in our region. The need for respite is ongoing and we are looking for qualified, committed, and reliable respite providers to add to our Support Provider Database.

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