As winter approaches, the care sector in West Sussex will be under increased pressure especially this year with the additional challenges of the coronavirus pandemic. More care workers are needed across the care sector to keep the elderly and vulnerable people safe and well.

West Sussex County Council’s Adult Social Care’s Winter Plan sets out how West Sussex residents will be supported throughout the winter months. A key element of the plan is to make sure there are enough care workers to support those living in residential care homes and care for people in their own homes.

In West Sussex, there are currently an estimated 25,000 people working in adult social care* but many more are needed.

The county council’s Proud to Care initiative is set up to help anyone thinking of working in care and particularly wants to hear from people who can work in care this winter. The Proud to Care website advertises hundreds of vacancies and contains information, guidance and case studies of others who now work in care.

Amanda Jupp, Cabinet Member for Adults and Health, said: “Working in care is so rewarding and offers long term career opportunities for anyone motivated by helping and improving the lives of others. Christmas will be a difficult time for many people this year, so providing care to people that cannot be with their loved ones is, more than ever, vitally important.

“Many ideal care workers come from many different backgrounds including retail, hospitality and customer services as they have the transferable people skills needed to be good carers. As we continue to be under restrictions to day to day life a number of people in these industries are facing redundancy so care work offers a great new opportunity.”

Former shop manager Lesley now works as a Care Assistant in the Chichester area.

She said: “Not only do I feel like I’m giving something back but the people I care for give so much to me too. I feel so valued and appreciated, I wouldn’t go back to working in retail now. To be a good carer you need to be friendly, versatile, quick thinking and enjoy conversation.”

Local care providers have a range of vacancies offering full or part-time hours and either temporary or permanent contracts. This flexibility is perfect for people looking for work to fit around their lifestyle and family commitments, particularly over Christmas.

To find out more about working in care and search for jobs in West Sussex click here or email www.proudtocare@westsussex.gov.uk