Our Approach & Training

At Extra Hands Care Collective, we believe that good care is built on relationships, clarity, and ongoing support. While our work is not medical or clinical, it is thoughtful, intentional, and guided by shared standards that help ensure safety, consistency, and respect.

Our training model combines formal preparation, hands-on guidance, and one-to-one mentorship. We believe that learning happens best through real experience, reflection, and human connection.

This page outlines how we prepare and support companions, and the principles that guide our work.

Our Approach to Care

Our approach is relationship-based, values-driven, and person-centred.

We recognize that care happens as part of everyday life. Each person and household is different, and our approach is to listen, communicate clearly, and adjust our support in ways that feel respectful and appropriate.

We prioritize:

Respect for autonomy and choice
Clear communication and informed consent
Emotional safety alongside physical safety
Strong professional boundaries
Consistency and reliability over time

Core Training for All Companions

Before providing care, all companions at EHCC receive onboarding and preparation that includes both formal training and guided, practical learning.

Core preparation includes:

Professional Boundaries & Conduct
Clear expectations around respectful behaviour, appropriate roles, and maintaining professional relationships in home-based care settings.

Consent, Privacy & Confidentiality
Understanding informed consent, respectful communication, and the protection of personal and family information.

Safety & Risk Awareness
Identifying risks in home and community settings, safe movement and lifting practices, and knowing when to pause, seek guidance, or escalate concerns.

Communication & Relationship-Building
Listening skills, compassionate communication, and supporting individuals in ways that feel collaborative rather than directive.

Scope of Services & Clear Limits
A strong understanding of what companions may and may not provide, and how to respond when needs fall outside EHCC’s scope.

One-to-One Mentorship & On-the-Job Support

A core part of training at Extra Hands Care Collective is individual mentorship.

In addition to formal courses and certifications (such as CPR/First Aid or external education through recognized organizations), companions are supported through direct, one-to-one guidance from EHCC leadership.

This mentorship may include:

On-the-job orientation and modelling of care approaches
Clear explanation of expectations, boundaries, and scope
Space to ask questions and talk through real situations
Support in building confidence and professional judgment
Thoughtful feedback focused on growth, safety, and alignment with values

The goal of mentorship is to ensure that companions feel supported and prepared, and that clients receive care that is respectful, attentive, and aligned with EHCC’s standards.

Service-Specific Preparation

Alongside core training and mentorship, companions receive guidance related to the specific services they provide.

Kidcare

Supervision standards and child safety
Non-punitive, relationship-based behaviour guidance
Supporting routines such as meals, hygiene, and school readiness
Understanding mandatory reporting obligations

Companion Care

Personal care boundaries and dignity-focused support
Medication reminders versus administration
Dementia-informed communication and routine support
Emotional presence without replacing medical, clinical, or hospice care

Everyday Home & Life Support

Clear definitions of light household and outdoor tasks
Safe approaches to cleaning, organizing, and yard work
Boundaries around finances, repairs, and heavy equipment
Supporting household routines without taking control

Ongoing Learning & Support

Training at EHCC is not a one-time event.

Companions are supported through:

Ongoing communication and check-ins
Continued mentorship as new situations arise
Opportunities for reflection and learning
Adjustments to guidance as client needs evolve

We value curiosity, humility, and thoughtful practice — and we recognize that good care providers grow through experience, reflection, and support.

Clear Scope & Honest Limits

Extra Hands Care Collective provides non-medical, non-clinical support.

Our companions do not:

Provide medical or clinical care
Administer medications
Perform home repairs or skilled trades work
Handle client finances or make legal decisions

When needs fall outside our scope, we believe in transparency and collaboration, and we support families in identifying appropriate next steps when possible.

A Thoughtful, Human Standard of Care

Our approach to training and mentorship is designed to support care that feels steady, respectful, and human.

By combining formal education with one-to-one guidance, we aim to ensure that companions feel confident and supported — and that clients experience care that honours their dignity, autonomy, and lived experience.