150 posts on offer at job fair devoted to the care industry

ABOUT 150 vacancies will be on offer at a major jobs fair taking place in Derby tomorrow for people looking to work in the care sector.

The event has been organised by JobCentre Plus, Derby College, Working Links and Remploy and will take place at the college’s Roundhouse campus, on Pride Park.

Employers from the care sector will be at the free event, including Derby Hospitals NHS Trust, Partnerships in Care and Allied Healthcare.

Job-seekers will have a chance to meet them and talk about the types of jobs and training available and how to apply.

Henry Murray, Derbyshire Jobcentre Plus sector development manager, said a range of positions would be on offer, including work which involves caring for children, the elderly and people with special needs.

He said: “There are lots of different types of job opportunities, from specialist mental health support to helping people stay independent in their own homes.

“Working patterns also vary from part-time and full-time to flexible hours suiting people’s domestic circumstances. People find the work very rewarding and it is an excellent way to gain new skills and develop a professional career.”

Hannah Porter, resource team manager at the hospital’s trust, said applicants did not have to be qualified in care to attend.

Health professionals will be on hand to give advice on how to build a career in health and social care, and where to go for training.

She said: “People often think they have to have special qualifications or a background in care to get a foot in the door. That isn’t always the case.

“People with any kind of customer service background and people who have been involved in some form of care such as bringing up children or looking after an elderly relative can be highly suited to care work.”

Ms Porter said the event would be a good opportunity for young people who are struggling to get on the jobs ladder.

She said: “There are also lots of entry-level jobs which can be a boost for younger people who may find getting a foot in the door difficult because of a limited work record.

“We are keen to recruit from the Derbyshire community, including unemployed people who are looking for a chance to prove themselves in a growing profession.”

One person who switched to a career in care is 55-year-old Kevin Baker from Chesterfield.

Mr Baker had previously worked in logistics and made the switch after a spell caring for his elderly father.

He said: “When I go home now I have a smile on my face because what I am doing is making a positive difference to someone else’s life.

“Before I just used to go home sad and tired and didn’t feel I’d really achieved anything worthwhile.

“I’d really recommend a career in care to anyone who wants the brilliant job satisfaction I get every day; it’s a really rewarding way to earn a living.”

People unable to attend the jobs fair, on from 11am to 5pm, can find out more by visiting www.skillsforcare.org.uk.