Long-term care advocates and unions are raising concerns about Ontario's plan to introduce a new job category to help with staffing issues in long-term care homes.
The government launched a recruitment effort this week to help homes recruit what it calls resident support aides.
The Ministry of Long-term Care says the goal is to offer employment to hospitality workers who may have lost their jobs during the pandemic.
The government says the workers would help with recreational activities and during meal times, and co-ordinate residents' visits with family.
Jane Meadus, of the Advocacy Centre for the Elderly, says the new hires won't have the same level of training as personal supporter and yet work with seniors with complex needs.
The Canadian Union of Public Employees says the workers are likely to end up providing care not in their job descriptions because homes are short staffed.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 10, 2020.
The Canadian Press
