FAQ

FAQ (General)

CareService.ca is your premier online platform for connecting local families with nearby homecare providers. Our customizable web tool allows you to manage your search, displaying potential matches in your area tailored to your unique preferences.

Unlike a traditional job agency, we do not conduct background checks or screen new members. Instead, we provide a platform where users can browse, compare, and review each other, ensuring fast and flexible access for everyone.

Your safety is our priority. If you receive any inappropriate messages or experience mistreatment, please report it to our team. All reports are confidential and investigated thoroughly by CareService.ca team.

Registering for a CareService.ca membership is always free. With a Basic account, you can browse profiles of registered in-home workers or employers in your area and initiate conversations. However, to reply to messages, you’ll need a Premium subscription, Please note that the price does not include the VAT.

Premium Plans

For Workers:

  • 1 month: 59 CAD ( Tax included )
  • 3 months: 119 CAD ( Tax included )
  • 6 months: 179 CAD ( Tax included )
For Employers
  • 1 month: 69 CAD ( Tax included )
  • 3 month: 139 CAD ( Tax included )
  • 6 month: 209 CAD ( Tax included )

Your Premium membership will automatically renew for the same duration as your initial subscription. You can cancel at any time and the cancellation will take effect 24 hours after you confirm the cancellation, the remaining unused subscription period is non-refundable.

Yes, you can cancel your Premium membership at any time without any cancellation fees. Cancelling your subscription will not result in the loss of your CareService.ca profile. With a Basic account, you’ll still have access to limited features, including a customizable profile and the ability to receive messages from others for free.

To cancel your Premium subscription with CareService.ca, please follow these instructions.

Your Premium subscription automatically renews at the end of each payment cycle. For instance, a 1-month subscription renews every 30 days, while a 3-month subscription renews every 90 days.

If you choose to cancel your paid subscription, you have 24 hours to retain access to CareService.ca’s Premium features. If no action is taken within the time, cancellation takes place. 

Yes, you can deactivate your CareService.ca account anytime following these instructions. Upon deleting your profile, CareService.ca will immediately make it inaccessible. Your data will be stored for a maximum of two years after deletion.

Or, you can simply set your account to private if you’re not actively seeking a match and would like to hide your profile.

FAQ (Employer)

Fill out your profile with a brief introduction of yourselves and your situation, and details about your needs. Then, use the filters to search for workers based on location, availability, service type, language skills, and rates etc..

Here are some tips and examples. 

  • Self-Introduction: Start with a brief introduction about yourself and your current situation. Mention any relevant background information that might help workers understand your needs better. Example: “Hi, I’m Alex, a working professional living in Vancouver, BC. I am seeking a compassionate and experienced worker for my elderly mother who requires assistance with daily activities.”
  • Detailed Information: Provide detailed information about your needs. This includes the type of care required, specific tasks, and any special considerations. Example: “My mother, Jane, is 78 years old and has mild dementia. She needs help with medication management, meal preparation, light housekeeping, and companionship. She enjoys gardening and reading, so someone who shares these interests would be a great fit.”
  • Additional Tips:
    • Show Your Personality: Add personal touches to your profile to make it more engaging. Mention hobbies, interests, or any unique aspects of your situation.
    • Profile Picture: Include a clear and friendly photo to make your profile more approachable.
    • Keep It Updated: Regularly update your profile to reflect any changes in your needs or availability.

Request Reviews: Ask previous workers or families to leave reviews on your profile to build credibility. By following these steps, you’ll create a comprehensive and appealing profile that will help you find the right worker for your needs.

Ask about their availability, relevant experience, and comfort with additional tasks. Discuss caregiving style, handling emergencies, and compatibility. Here are some sample questions:

  • Can you describe your previous experience as a worker?
  • Do you have any certifications or specialized training?
  • How do you handle stressful situations or emergencies?
  • How would you handle a situation where a client refuses to take their medication?
  • Can you give an example of a time when you had to deal with a difficult client?
  • What motivates you to do your best work?
  • How do you ensure you maintain a positive attitude while working?
  • Do you have reliable transportation?
  • Are you willing to undergo a background check?
  • Are you comfortable with performing housekeeping duties?

How do I ensure the worker is trustworthy? Check references and reviews from other clients and consider booking our in-person meeting service for verification. While we do not conduct background checks or screen new members, we recommend the following steps for your peace of mind:

  • Request references from workers’ previous employers.
  • Conduct background checks through authorized organizations.
  • Book our in-person meeting service for verification.

Maintain regular communication, schedule check-ins, address issues promptly, and provide positive feedback. Building positive relationships in the workplace is essential for employers and workers. When employers foster a supportive environment, it benefits both employers and workers. Here are some effective strategies for maintaining positive relationships with workers:

  • Trust and Reliability: Cultivate trust by being reliable and consistent. Workers should feel confident that their employer will keep promises, maintain transparency, and follow through on commitments.
  • Open Communication: Encourage open dialogue. Regularly check in with workers, actively listen to their concerns, and provide constructive feedback. Effective communication helps build strong connections.
  • Appreciation and Recognition: Acknowledge workers’ efforts and accomplishments. Regularly express appreciation for their hard work. Recognition boosts morale and reinforces positive relationships.
  • Conflict Resolution Skills: Address workplace conflicts promptly and constructively to maintain a positive atmosphere.
  • Shared Interests: Encourage workers to find common ground. Shared hobbies, interests, or values can help build connections and improve workplace relationships.
  • Work-Life Balance: Show understanding when employees need flexible schedules. A healthy balance contributes to positive relationships.
  • Empathy and Compassion: Understand workers’ personal challenges and show empathy. A compassionate attitude fosters trust and loyalty.

How much should I pay my workers? First, ensure you comply with the minimum wage or hourly rate established by law. In British Columbia, the minimum wage is currently $17.40 per hour. Additionally, a worker’s rate is influenced by several factors, including their level of experience, the workload you need, the number of children they will be looking after, and the distance they need to travel for the job.

To determine an appropriate rate, start by considering the minimum wage for your area. In Vancouver, the average rate is around $22.04 per hour. You might consider offering a higher rate if you require additional help with tasks.

FAQ (Worker)

Creating a strong profile is essential to attract potential employers and find the right job opportunities. Here are some tips and examples to help you make an outstanding profile and effectively search for job opportunities:

Self-Introduction: Start with a brief introduction about yourself and your background. Highlight your passion for caregiving and any relevant experience that showcases your expertise and professionalism. Example: “Hi, I’m Jamie, a dedicated homecare provider with a passion for helping others. I live in Vancouver, BC, and have been providing quality care for families and individuals for over six years.”

Detailed Information: Provide detailed information about your skills, services, and certifications. Mention specific tasks you are proficient in and any special qualifications. Example: “I offer a range of services including personal care, meal preparation, housekeeping, and companionship. I am certified in CPR and have specialized training in supporting clients with mobility challenges.”

Background: Share your experience and qualifications. Include any relevant certifications, training, and work history that demonstrate your capability and reliability as a worker. Example: “With over six years of experience in homecare, I have worked with clients of all ages, providing compassionate and personalized care. I hold certifications in CPR, First Aid, and have completed specialized training in dementia care.”

Service Types: Specify the types of home care services you can provide. Be clear about your capabilities to attract employers who need your specific skills. Example: “I provide personal care, such as bathing and dressing, as well as meal preparation, light housekeeping, and companionship. My training includes support for clients with chronic conditions and mobility issues.”

Additional Tips:

  • Show Your Personality: Add personal touches to your profile to make it more engaging. Mention hobbies, interests, or unique skills that might appeal to potential employers. Example: “In my spare time, I enjoy cooking and hiking, activities that I often share with my clients to make their days more enjoyable.”
  • Profile Picture: Include a clear and friendly photo to make your profile more approachable.
  • Keep It Updated: Regularly update your profile to reflect any new skills, certifications, or changes in availability.
  • Request Reviews: Ask previous clients or families to leave reviews on your profile to build credibility and showcase your reliability.

Take Initiative: Actively search for job opportunities through the platform’s dashboard. Use filters to narrow down job listings that match your skills and availability.

Be ready to talk about your caregiving experience, handling emergencies, favorite activities with clients, additional tasks you can perform, and your availability. For additional help, here are some common questions that could be asked by an employer during an interview for a caregiving role.

  • Can you describe your previous experience as a worker?
  • Do you have any certifications or specialized training?
  • How do you handle stressful situations or emergencies?
  • How would you handle a situation where a client refuses to take their medication?
  • Can you give an example of a time when you had to deal with a difficult client?
  • What motivates you to do your best work?
  • How do you ensure you maintain a positive attitude while working?
  • Do you have reliable transportation?
  • Are you willing to undergo a background check?
  • Are you comfortable with performing housekeeping duties?

When interviewing for a caregiving role, it’s important to ask key questions to understand the job expectations and ensure it’s a good fit for you. Here are some essential questions to consider:

  • What are the primary responsibilities for this caregiving position?
  • Are there any additional duties I should be aware of?
  • Can you provide more details about the client I will be working with?
  • Is there a specific care plan that I need to follow?
  • What is the expected schedule for this position?
  • What are the protocols for handling emergencies?
  • What kind of support and resources are available to me as a caregiver?
  • Are there opportunities for further training and professional development?
  • What is the compensation for this position?
  • Are there any benefits or perks associated with this job?
  • What are your policies on time off and sick leave?

By focusing on these key areas, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of the job and the employer’s expectations, ensuring that you make an informed decision about the caregiving position.

FAQ (Extra Services)

These services are provided by a third party agency affiliated with CareServices.ca and include the Personalized Consultation Program and in-person meetings, both available by appointment. Fees apply.

The Personalized Consultation Program is designed to facilitate optimal matches between employers and domestic workers through a meticulous consulting process, utilizing years of records collected through industry experience. 

For Employers: If you are seeking a domestic worker, the program connects you with qualified and experienced individuals who meet your specific needs and preferences. This ensures that you find a trustworthy and capable worker who fits seamlessly into your household.

For In-Home Workers: If you are looking for employment, the program matches you with reputable employers who are looking for your specific skills and qualifications. This provides you with reliable and rewarding job opportunities that align with your expertise and availability.
For more information, utilize our chat assistant or contact us.

An In-Person Meeting Service is a facilitated meeting to connect employers and workers in a controlled, safe environment. This service addresses the common skepticism associated with online platforms for staffing and job searches, ensuring that employers and workers establish a foundation of trust and mutual understanding.

  1. Verify Credentials: One of the primary benefits of this service is the ability to verify credentials directly. With our organization present, employers can review identification, certifications, and other relevant documents face-to-face, ensuring that the worker’s qualifications are legitimate and up to date.
  2. Extra Security: Online interactions can sometimes lead to skepticism about the authenticity of the other party. Our facilitated in-person meetings significantly reduce the risk of encountering fake profiles or individuals with malicious intentions. The presence of our organization adds an extra layer of security, helping build trust and confidence between employers and workers.
  3. Personalized Support: The opportunity to meet face-to-face, with our organization acting as a mediator, allows for personalized interactions. Both parties can discuss specific needs, preferences, and expectations in detail, ensuring that both the employer and the worker are on the same page. Our facilitation helps establish a clear understanding of the job requirements and conditions, making the communication process smoother and more effective.

Additional Information:

  • Premium Member Discounts:
    • If you are already a premium member with us, a discount will be applied to your booking fee. Ensure you are logged into your account to automatically receive the discount in checkout.
    • As a premium member, you will automatically receive a discount on your booking fee. Just make sure you’re logged into your account during checkout to enjoy the savings.
  • Cancellation and Rescheduling:
    • If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please visit the Cancellation and Rescheduling page.
    • Note that cancellations may be subject to a fee, and rescheduling is allowed up to 24 hours before the appointment time.
  • Preparation for Your Appointment:
    • Make sure to bring all necessary documents and identification that you discussed  to the appointment.
    • Arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled time to ensure a smooth process.
  • Contact Us for Assistance:
    • If you encounter any issues while booking or have questions about the appointment services, feel free to contact our support team via the Contact Us page.

The responsibility for payment of the In-Person Meeting service can vary based on the arrangement made between the employer and the worker. Generally, the employer is responsible for the payment, but it ultimately depends on who requests the service or mutual agreement. Here are some common scenarios:

  1. Employer Requests the Meeting:
    • If the employer requests the in-person meeting to verify credentials or for personalized support, the employer is typically responsible for the payment.
  2. Worker Requests the Meeting:
    • If the worker requests the in-person meeting for purposes such as discussing job requirements or conflict resolution, the worker may be responsible for the payment.
  3. Mutual Agreement:
    • In some cases, both parties may agree to share the cost of the in-person meeting. This should be discussed and agreed upon beforehand. A bill-splitting function is not available in our system.
  4. Premium Membership Discounts:

If either party is a premium member, they may be eligible for a discount on the service fee. Ensure that the premium member logins to apply the discount automatically during checkout.