Ontario is investing close to $17 million to train 700 new personal support workers and nurses for long-term care jobs by 2025. This effort builds on the success of current programs that have helped thousands of students and improved the skills of many staff members.
Continuing a Successful Journey
The latest investment connects with two provincial programs that have shown great results. A government announcement reveals that more than 27,000 students have gained experience in long-term care homes, and 170 staff members have improved their skills and become certified personal support workers.
This funding is also a part of Ontario’s larger Your Health Plan, which seeks to bring in and train many new long-term care workers in the years ahead.
A Commitment to Quality Care for Everyone
Ontario’s Long-Term Care Minister, Natalia Kusendova-Bashta, talked about how important this investment is for the residents and the workers.
“Our government is increasing the number of workers in long-term care so that residents receive the high-quality care they need right where they live,” said Kusendova-Bashta.
“We are also helping people learn new skills for different jobs and ensuring that nursing and PSW students get real hands-on experience during their training.”
Growing Key Support for PSWs and Nurses
Out of the $17 million investment:
- $14 million is set aside to boost the Preceptor Resource and Education Program for Long-Term Care (PREP LTC).
- Since it started in 2022, this program has aided 500 long-term care homes in offering clinical placements for more than 27,500 nursing and PSW students.
- $2.6 million will be used to extend the PSW Learn and Earn Accelerated Program at Humber Polytechnic.
- This program aims to assist current long-term care staff in getting the training they need to become certified PSWs.
Support for Future PSWs and Nurses
Ontario is actively providing support for students and new graduates from personal support worker programs. These benefits aim to inspire careers in long-term care facilities and home and community care, responding to the increasing demand for skilled workers.
Building a Better Future for Long-Term Care in Ontario
The investment by the province shows a strong dedication to the long-term care sector. By broadening training options and improving skills for workers, this aims to provide residents with the quality care they deserve. At the same time, it opens up valuable, practical career paths in health care.
