A REDDITCH care company is urging former employees from the hospitality and retail sectors to bring their skills to the care sector.

As the pandemic brings unemployment and an uncertain future for the job market, Home Instead Redditch and Bromsgrove, which has 50 care roles to fill, is in need of local people to move into care work. While there are job losses in sectors including retail, leisure, travel and hospitality, the pandemic has caused a surge in demand for home care as people look to protect their loved ones.

Annie Dixon Dunn, owner of Home Instead Redditch, said: “Our companionship-based home care services match our caregivers to clients based on shared interests, creating a strong relationship.

"People who are chatty and friendly, skills found in many customer-service based roles, easily transfer these essential skills to a care role. We are calling upon those who have these skills to join us.”

Amber Langston joined the company at the beginning of the pandemic, after working in the bakery and café at the local Sainsbury’s supermarket.

She said: “I’ve always had a caring instinct, having looked after my auntie when she was living with dementia and helping seniors who have fallen when out and about, but the timing to move to a career in care had never been right.

“I was worried about fitting the role around caring for my children, especially as my partner works nights, but Home Instead are so flexible with the shift patterns that I’m able to manage my family life and work in my dream job. I love everything about working in care, going to see my clients is like going to visit my friends.

"I love the feeling of satisfaction you get, and knowing you really do make a difference to your clients lives.

“If you’re thinking of a career change, I would recommend caring to anyone. You get to help your clients live their lives to the max, the office team and other caregivers are so supportive, encouraging and appreciative.”

Caregivers’ duties are tailored to the needs of individual clients and ranges from companionship, meal preparation, light housekeeping, post-discharge care, personal care, shopping and errands.

To find out more about Home Instead Redditch and Bromsgrove and their care giving vacancies, people can call 01527 810 855or visit www.homeinstead.co.uk/redditch-bromsgrove/.