People in B.C. now have more support to start a career working with seniors and elders with the launch of the Home and Independent Living program.

“I encourage people who are seeking a new and rewarding career – one that will offer assistance to loved ones that need some help at home – to give this opportunity some thought,” said Anne Kang, Minister of Advanced Education and Skills Training. “Our government is proud to support programs such as this, where training will give new hope to both people looking for a new profession and supporting seniors’ care.”

Home and Independent Living (HaIL) is a free training program funded by the provincial government and BC Care Providers Association (BCCPA). Students train to become home-health companions or hospitality workers in independent living. In these roles, they will help keep seniors company, provide support with meals, perform light housekeeping and help with other day-to-day tasks. 

HaIL will enrol 100 students across classes in the Thompson-Okanagan, Vancouver Island/Coast and Mainland-Southwest regions. The first 25-student class will begin in the Central Okanagan in late July.

Students will receive occupational health and safety training, such as first aid and CPR, to gain industry-recognized credentials. Those who complete the training can become entry-level candidates for non-medical positions. Each graduate will be provided with paid work placements and connected with potential employers.

“Seniors and elders deserve the highest level of care,” said Mable Elmore, Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors’ Services and Long-Term Care. “By supporting HaIL, we’re strengthening services for seniors, helping job seekers find new careers and boosting our economy. It’s a great program to see launching, and I wish the students great success.”

The Ministry of Advanced Education, in partnership with the BCCPA and EngAge BC, has provided $324,560 to HaIL for this program.

“The strong focus on allowing seniors to ‘age in place’ and to live in their homes as long as possible will require the necessary human resources to achieve this,” said Terry Lake, CEO, BCCPA and EngAge BC. “The HaIL Training Program can help to grow a workforce that is qualified and confident to support our seniors at home and in independent living.”

Learn More:

For more information and to register for HaIL, visit: www.hailtraining.ca