Independent Living Nova Scotia (ILNS) is a provincial, disability-led organization dedicated to empowering persons with disabilities to live independently, participate fully in their communities, and exercise choice and control over their lives.

The Independent Living Support (ILS) Worker provides individualized, person-directed support to adults living independently in the community. Working alongside participants—not for them—the ILS Worker assists individuals in building the knowledge, confidence, and practical skills needed to achieve their personal goals while promoting self-determination, dignity, inclusion, and community participation.

This position embraces the philosophy that every individual has the right to make decisions about their own life while receiving the supports necessary to live independently.

Qualifications

Required

- Diploma, Certificate, or equivalent experience in Human Services, Disability Supports, Social Services, Recreation, Psychology, Education, or a related field.
- Experience supporting persons with disabilities in community settings is considered an asset.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- Solid organizational and documentation skills.
- Ability to work independently while remaining part of a collaborative team.
- Demonstrated problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
- Strong understanding of person-directed planning and participant-centered supports.

Required Certifications

- Standard First Aid & CPR
- Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search
- Valid Nova Scotia Driver's License
- Clean Driver's Abstract
- Access to a reliable vehicle
- Minimum $2 million automobile liability insurance

The following certifications are required or must be obtained upon hire:
- Non-Violent Crisis Prevention Intervention (NVCPI) or equivalent
- WHMIS
- Fire & Life Safety
- Medication Awareness
- Person-Centred Planning
- Food Handler Certification (where applicable)
- Workplace Violence Prevention
- Occupational Health & Safety Orientation

Core Competencies

Successful candidates will demonstrate

- Commitment to the Independent Living Philosophy
- Respect for diversity, inclusion, and accessibility
- Professionalism and integrity
- Initiative and sound judgment
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Solid interpersonal skills
- Excellent time management
- Effective conflict resolution skills
- Creativity and resourcefulness
- Strong organizational abilities
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively

Physical Requirements This position requires the ability to:

- Travel throughout the community.
- Lift and carry up to 25 lbs.




- Navigate participant homes and community environments.
- Work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, when required.
- Participate in community outings and recreational activities.

Working Conditions The ILS Worker primarily works within participant homes and community settings throughout Nova Scotia. The role requires travel, community engagement, and occasional evening or weekend work based on participant needs.

Key Responsibilities

Provides Individualized Participant Support, including but not limited to:

- Building respectful, trusting relationships with participants based on the principles of the Independent Living Philosophy.
- Supporting participants in achieving goals identified within their Individualized Support Plan.
- Promoting participant choice, self-advocacy, and informed decision-making.
- Encouraging skill development rather than dependence on support.
- Assisting participants in developing strategies to increase independence across all areas of daily living.
- Supporting participants with activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), including:
- Meal planning and preparation
- Household management
- Grocery shopping
- Budgeting and banking
- Transportation training
- Medication reminders (where appropriate)
- Appointment planning
- Community navigation
- Technology supports
- Encouraging healthy lifestyles through nutrition, exercise, wellness planning, and access to healthcare.
- Assisting participants in identifying barriers and developing practical solutions that support long-term independence.
- Supporting transitions into independent living and other life changes.

Provides Community Inclusion & Engagement, including but not limited to:
- Promoting meaningful participation within the community.
- Assisting participants to identify recreational, educational, volunteer, and employment opportunities aligned with their interests.
- Supporting participants in developing natural supports and social connections.
- Fostering community inclusion through participation in local events and activities.
- Encouraging participants to build confidence in using community resources independently.

Supports Clients Advocacy & Rights, including but not limited to:
- Promoting and upholding participant rights, dignity,



and autonomy.
- Encouraging self-advocacy and informed choice.
- Recognizing and reporting situations involving abuse, neglect, exploitation, or safety concerns according to ILNS policies.
- Supporting participants in navigating community systems and accessing appropriate services.

Collaborates with staff and external partner, including but not limited to:
- Working collaboratively with Community Support Managers, Program Coordinators, healthcare professionals, Disability Support Program Care Coordinators, families (where appropriate), and community partners.
- Participating in case reviews, planning meetings, and interdisciplinary discussions.
- Maintaining professional communication while respecting participant confidentiality.

Complete accurate and timely documentation including:
- Daily Support Notes
- Progress Notes
- Goal Tracking
- Incident Reports
- Medication Documentation (where applicable)
- Mileage Claims
- Appointment Records
- Community Engagement Documentation
- Participant Outcome Reporting

Ensure documentation complies with ILNS policies, funding requirements, and professional standards. Performs other professional responsibilities, including but not limited to:
- Attending mandatory meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities.
- Maintaining required certifications.
- Demonstrating professionalism, accountability, and ethical practice.
- Maintaining professional boundaries with participants at all times.
- Supporting new employee orientation and mentoring when requested.
- Contributing positively to a collaborative team culture.

Why Join Independent Living Nova Scotia? At ILNS, we believe disability does not limit potential—barriers do. Our team is committed to removing those barriers by empowering people to live independently, participate fully in their communities, and pursue lives of their choosing.

Joining ILNS means becoming part of a progressive, disability-led organization recognized across Atlantic Canada for innovation, leadership, and person-directed service delivery. We value collaboration, professional growth, creativity, and a shared commitment to making meaningful change in the lives of the people we support.

Together, we build communities where everyone thrives

Pay: $25.70 per hour

Application question(s)

- Do you have a valid drivers license and access to a reliable vehicle?
- Do you have experience working with clients with mental health issues?
- Are you able to work days, evenings, overnights, weekends? List all that you are available for

Work Location: In person

📌 Independent Living Support Worker (Truro)
🏢 Independent Living Nova Scotia
📍 Truro