Manitoba Possible’s care-matching service connects individuals and families with workers offering companionship, respite and personal care.
Michael Coutts, director of social enterprise at Manitoba Possible, appeared on Community Hour with host Janice Stuyck to discuss Care Possible, a service designed to help individuals and families find support for care at home.
“We’re a not-for-profit and we’re a certified social enterprise, and we really think of ourselves as providing the service of making the self or family management of care easier for people,” Coutts said.
Care Possible operates through an in-person service supported by Manitoba Possible staff at the organization’s office just north of Polo Park in Winnipeg, as well as an online platform where users can create accounts, connect with care providers and access tools to help manage care arrangements.
The platform offers a range of support options, from personal care and help with meals to companionship and respite for family caregivers.
Coutts said some arrangements are as simple as spending time with someone who needs company.
“If dad just needs someone to play cards with for an hour or two, that works too,” he said. “We see listings on the platform like that all the time.”
Companionship can provide an opportunity for social interaction, while respite services can give family caregivers time to attend to other responsibilities.
Workers must apply to join the platform. According to Coutts, the screening process includes police record checks with vulnerable sector screening, adult and child abuse registry checks, and verification of identity and home address.
Once approved, workers create profiles outlining their skills, qualifications and experience. Some have formal health-care credentials, while others bring personal experience as caregivers.
Families can review profiles and learn about potential providers before contacting them. This can help families find someone whose experience and availability suit their needs.
Coutts said one challenge for people receiving care is having to explain their routines repeatedly when different workers arrive.
A platform that allows families to explore providers and their backgrounds may help them make more informed choices when arranging support.
Coutts said the need for flexible care options is growing as more people seek to remain in their homes and communities.
For families managing care, having access to different types of support can help them explore arrangements suited to their circumstances. The services people require will vary depending on their individual needs.
Care Possible provides a way for individuals and families to explore available providers and organize support, whether they need assistance with everyday activities or simply someone to spend time with a loved one.
People interested in Care Possible can visit Manitoba Possible’s website, email info@manitobapossible.ca or call 204-975-3010. The toll-free number is 1-866-282-8041.
Coutts also invited people to visit the organization’s office and speak with staff to learn more about the service.
Watch the full interview on U Multicultural Channel 14 in Manitoba, Bell MTS Channel 1029 in Winnipeg, U Radio 88.7 FM in Manitoba, or on U Multicultural’s YouTube channel.
https://youtu.be/fO1Ar0HuVO0?si=dWYqhV3t6jE9s_gT
Mariia Burdiak, U Multicultural