Who is a Personal Support Worker?

Personal Support Workers (PSWs) are integral to the success of a BC Easter Seals Camping Session.  These individuals come to work one on one (1:1) with a specific camper who, without this additional support, would be otherwise unable to attend the camp.  There are only 6 PSW spots in each camp session and these can be in high demand, so it is recommended that all campers who require a PSW apply early. 

Who Requires a PSW:

Genereally, the BC Easter Seals Camping program works with a 3:1 camper to staff ratio.  Campers and staff usually create a Buddy Group that include 2 counsellors and 6 campers.  This Buddy Group spends most of the week together.  The sleep in the same dorm room, they eat at the same table and the attend many activities as a group.  When a camper requires personalized attention, for either physical or mental care needs, that go beyond the 3:1 ratio of supervision offered by the Buddy Group, then a PSW is required.

Who Can Be  A PSW:

All PSWs must be at least 17 years old and have a clean criminal record check.  As the task of the PSW is to work and support the camper in a 1:1 manner, ideally the PSW should know the camper so as to best help integrate the capmer into the camp programs while being able to address camper care needs as they arise.  In lieu of this situation, the next best scenario is a former camp staff who knows camp well and can work with the camper to ensure they integrate into programs while having care needs met.  The least favourable situation is a care giver who does not know the camper and has never been to camp. 

How to become a PSW:

If you are looking to become involved in our program as a PSW and do not have a connection to a camper family already, please get in touch with the Camp Administrator to discuss the possibility.  UBC O students interested in finding out more information about doing their practicum at camp please visit the practicum page.

How To Find a PSW:

PSWs can be a worker from school, a friend, a sibling (parents are discouraged from being PSWs as camp is supposed to be a place that promotes independance and growth outside the routine family situation that camper lives in), or a former staff member or PSW.  As noted, there are only 6 PSW spots in each session and these often fill quickly.  If you feel that your camper requires a PSW (or if Camp has required that your camper attend with a PSW), then you should begin your search early.  All the session dates are online and you should let potential candidates know about these to ensure availability.  If you are unable to find a PSW from your local community, often we have a list of former staff and PSWs that we can attempt to connect you with, however there is no guarantee that these people will be available or a good fit for your camper.  Once you have identified a PSW, you should begin a process of hiring that includes: an interview, reference checks, salary agreement and expectations of duties.  As the PSW relationship is a private agreement between the parent/guardian and the PSW, BC Easter Seals Camps does not engage in the hiring of this individual (we do however require that all PSWs meet minimum standards of age and eligability for working with youth i.e. a criminal record check).

How to Apply with a PSW:

When you download your PDF Camper Application, you will also find a copy of the PSW application or you can use the online application that become available in April.  The PSW form must be completed and submitted along with the Camper Application before the camper can be confirmed in the session.  This includes the PSW's criminal record check.  In the past, Criminal Record Checks have been able to be completed through BackCheck, however, BackCheck is no longer able to provide vulnerable sector searches that are required for all camps in BC.  PSW should go to their local police stations and request a criminal record check with a vulnerable sector search.