Campaign aiming to find folk who care

A CAMPAIGN has been launched in Perth and Kinross to find additional care and support workers to help meet the needs of the area’s growing elderly population, to allow them to continue to live independently at home.

The campaign — Why Should I Care? — highlights the importance of care workers and the vital role they play in allowing so many people to live as independently as possible by supporting them at home.

By telling the stories of people who care and the people they care for, the campaign will show that it is a rewarding, long-term career.

The number of people over 65 in Perth and Kinross who require care at home is rising steadily — more than 1,500 people now receive support from care at home services.

Care is provided by a wide range of companies in Perth and Kinross, and many have job opportunities.

All companies who provide care services for the council have signed up to the Living Wage and fair working practices, so carers receive a minimum of £8.25 per hour and are paid for travel time and mileage.

Carers also receive full training and will be supported to gain their SVQ qualification in health and social care. The job offers flexibility – care jobs can often be fitted in around other demands such as children and family.