Wales launches national campaign to attract more social care workers into jobs to keep up with growing demands
A collaboration between Social Care Wales and other social care organisations has launched a new recruitment campaign called WeCare to attract more people to work in the care sector.
According to the campaign, by 2030, thousands more people will be needed to work in caring roles in Wales to cope with the increasing demand for care services and provide support for communities throughout the country.
The campaign is a partnership between Social Care Wales and organisations representing social care, early years and childcare in Wales, alongside other national bodies involved in job-seeking and careers advice.
It is part of Wales’ long-term strategy to build its workforce in the health and care sectors over the next 10 years to deliver the best possible service to people.
WeCare will focus on the range of career opportunities available in care, such as nursery practitioners and care home managers.
Sue Evans, Chief Executive of Social Care Wales, said “In Wales, around 90,000 people work in social care, while 23,000 work in early years and childcare. However, we still need more people if we are going to meet the needs and expectations of society over the next 10 years.
“Working in social care, early years and childcare can be demanding, but it’s also hugely worthwhile. The WeCare campaign has been developed to attract the right people to support some of the most vulnerable members in our communities or help inspire the next generation.
“There are a variety of roles available working with adults and children, as well as opportunities to gain qualifications on the job and progress careers. New qualifications in health, social care and childcare are being launched from September this year and this campaign is part of a broader plan to make sure we have a workforce across care and health services that will meet the future needs of the people of Wales.”
As the population in Wales continues to age, more people will have specific needs that require extra attention both inside and outside the home.
According to Skills for Care, it predicts that an increase of between 21 and 44 percent of adult social care workers would be needed by 2030 in England to keep up with the demands of the population.
In light of this, the WeCare campaign aims to show the variety of roles and career progression opportunities available. It features real care workers who talk about the difficulties they face as well as what makes their job rewarding and worthwhile.
Deputy Minister for Health and Social Services Julie Morgan said: “In Wales, we are fortunate to have a team of highly-committed and dedicated social care, early years and childcare professionals who go above and beyond every day. From caring and helping our youngest children to develop and thrive, to providing support and compassionate care to adults and older people, they make a huge difference to people’s lives.
“But we need more people to consider these highly rewarding careers.
“That’s why I’m delighted to support the new WeCare campaign. It’s been designed to showcase the opportunities social care, early years and childcare sectors can offer to all those with the right caring skills and qualities and the support which is available to help them develop and nurture their skills to support the people they assist live full and active lives.”