Q: Do you have a list of employers ready and willing to hire someone with hearing loss?

A: Each CHS office has access to different resources and we work hard to establish partnerships with employers in the community and develop a database of this information.  Our job developers and consultants invest a great deal of effort to ensure that the employer hiring you understands everyone's rights, responsibilities and accessibility issues.

Q: How can I afford the hearing aids or communication devices I need if I'm not working?

A: Ensuring your accommodation needs are met BEFORE you engage or re-enter the workforce is important.  We can work with you to identify your needs, and assist you with the selection and application processes.  We provide assistance to access funds through a variety of sources like OW, ODSP, Service Canada or local community groups. 

Q: Will you find me a job?

A: Finding a job requires teamwork between you and the CHS Employment Services consultant. 

Q: My boss is telling me he may let me go because my hearing has worsened.  Can he do that?

A: No.  You are protected by the Ontario Human Rights Code.  Employers are required to provide accommodations for persons with disabilities to enable them to perform the essential duties of the job.

Q: Does CHS provide a clothing allowance for interviews?

A: No, but we can help you find funding from other agencies if applicable. 

Q: Can I get help to pay for training or courses?

A: It depends on the type of training.  If it is a college program, we can help you to apply for a training subsidy.  Unfortunately, subsidies are not available for short-term courses. 

Q: Does CHS have skills training programs?

A: No, but often we have partnerships with other agencies that do and we can make referrals. 

Q: Will I lose my ODSP if I work?

A: No.  You will be able to keep 50% of your earnings.  This means for each $1.00 you make at work, ODSP will deduct $.50 from your ODSP cheque.  Also, ODSP will add $100 to your ODSP cheque to help pay for work-related expenses.

Q: If I hire a deaf or hard of hearing person, how will we communicate?

A: Communication is not impossible - it will just be slightly different than what you are used to and easier than you think.  We will provide you with a variety of strategies for effective communication between you, your new employee, and your staff.  An interpreter can be provided for interviews and job training. 

Q: Can you book interpreters for interviews and on-the-job training?

A: Yes.  We can arrange an interpreter for you through Ontario Interpreting Services.  As a deaf or hard of hearing person there is no cost to you.

Q: Is your service free?

A: Yes, CHS Employment Services are completely free.