An initiative to address the need for social care workers has reached over 100 recruits.
With a current national shortage of staff working in social care, combined with people living longer, there has never been a greater need for people to work in the sector.
Since it was launched in September 2019, County Durham Care Academy, run by Durham County Council, has played a major part in inspiring a new generation of care workers and helping people looking for a career change.
Recruitment programmes are delivered throughout the year by the council’s in-house training provider DurhamLearn.
It accepts referrals from local Jobcentres as well as self-referrals.
Alex Hogan is the 100th recruit to come through the academy after taking part in a fast-track programme.
The programme was developed in partnership with social care provider Bondcare, which operates the Care Village in Willington.
Alex was referred through Crook Jobcentre and attended a five-day fast-track course which covered various elements of the Care Certificate qualification.
As well as formal training Alex was also provided with support to complete Bondcare’s application process and with her interview skills.
At the end of the course Alex was guaranteed an interview with Bondcare at Willington Care Village, where she is now employed as a support worker.
Alex, who is 23 and lives in Crook, said: “I wanted to have a career in care so badly.
“The Care Academy helped put my mind at rest by providing answers to all of my questions about what working in the sector entails.
“I was a carer for my grandad for a year and talking to the staff made me realise I already had a lot of skills suitable for the role. Now I’ve been able to develop them with their support.”
The Care Academy was established to support people looking for a career in social care, pre-employment training is available and includes a guaranteed job interview with a social care provider in County Durham.
Through the Care Academy, many people have used their transferrable skills and experience to gain employment in social care. Once in post, the academy provides social care staff with opportunities to develop their skills and knowledge, to support career progression.
Cllr Paul Sexton, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for adult and health services, said: “It is fantastic that the Care Academy has now passed the 100th recruit mark at a time when we know there is a big demand for care workers.
“Social care can be a very rewarding career which makes a huge difference to the lives of those cared for and their families.
“The Care Academy is a great way of getting into employment in the care sector, with help and support provided every step of the way.”