Personal Support Worker (PSW) Diploma

The Personal Support Worker (PSW) program prepares graduates to provide supportive care to individuals across their lifespan by assisting them with their activities of daily living, including clients experiencing cognitive impairment, physical disability, and mental health challenges.

The Program was developed and maintained by a committee consisting of consultants, program design experts, subject-matter experts from both the Regulated College sector and employer groups.

The range of services provided by Personal Support Workers depends upon the individual needs of each person they support and may include personal care such as dressing, personal hygiene, mobility, and other routine activities of living in accordance with the Regulated Health Professions Act, home management such as shopping, light house cleaning, and meal preparation, family responsibilities such as routine caregiving to children and assisting with social and recreational activities.

As front-line workers, Personal Support Workers must develop a broad range of abilities beyond dexterity skills. They must provide not only for the comfort, safety, and well-being of their clients, but also demonstrate sensitivity and respect for those in their care. The attitude, abilities, and approach of the PSW are critical to the well-being and health of the people they support.