Contracted Agency Care
Last updated on September 28, 2023On this page:
- Who are contracted agency caregivers?
- Are you interested in providing care to children and youth through a contracted agency?
- How are caregivers working in contracted agencies supported?
- Helpful Links
- Steps to apply to become a caregiver for a contracted agency
- Caregiver Stories
- Resources
Who are contracted agency caregivers?
Contracted agency caregivers have a passion for working with children and youth and bring their education and specialized skills to a dynamic work environment.
This type of caregiver works for a community-based agency that has a contract with the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) or an Indigenous Child and Family Service (ICFS) Agency to provide homes for children and youth with complex needs who require specialized care. Contracted agency caregivers provide care for children and youth, and support their family while they work toward reunification.
Caregivers in these homes often work in shifts to provide 24-hour care.
Are you interested in providing care to children and youth through a contracted agency?
This type of care provision is ideal for those who:
- Want a career in caregiving
- Have a passion for working with children and youth with complex needs
- Have education and/or skills and experience working with individuals with complex needs
- Want to build their skills in a supported environment and work with others who have the same passion for working with children and youth
- Are interested in opportunities for career growth
- Are looking for casual, part-time or full-time shift work
- Prefer to work outside their own home
Did you know?
Contracted agencies with a contract to provide care to children and youth can specialize in the type of care they provide. This includes supporting children and youth who require specialized medical care, support with daily living, short-term stabilization support or trauma-informed care.
How are caregivers working in contracted agencies supported?
Caregivers receive training, mentorship and guidance to build their caregiving skills. Training areas can include:
- Trauma and attachment
- Crisis management
- Health and safety protocols
- Other specialized training based on the care the children and youth require
Agency caregivers are also supported by house managers and program coordinators. Many agencies may also have clinical support and other specialized supports working with a child or youth and their caregivers, depending on their specific needs.
Full-time and part-time employment opportunities are available for you to provide a valuable service to your local community and make a difference in a young person’s life.
“Contracted Agency Caregivers provide care for children and youth and support the family while they work on reunification. These homes are staffed with caregivers who usually work in shifts to provide care on a 24-hour care."
Helpful Links
Federation of Community Social Services BC – The Federation represents a membership of over 140 agencies who provide support to individuals and communities in BC. Member agencies offer a broad range of services to communities. Many of the contracted agencies providing care and support to children and youth are members of the Federation.
Standards for Contracted Agency Care
Steps to apply to become a caregiver for a contracted agency
Step 1:
Visit The Federation of Community Social Services BC at https://fcssbc.ca/about/our-members/ to find agencies across the Province that provide care to children and youth.
Step 2:
Contact the contracted agencies in your area or visit their websites to find current employment opportunities.
Step 3:
Apply with a contracted agency in your area to become a caregiver and start making a difference in the life of a child or youth.
Caregiver Stories
Resources
- BC Foster Parents Association
- Indigenous Caregivers of BC
- Representative for Children and Youth - Belonging
- The Federation of Community Social Services of BC