Discover the rewards of a career in care

Gillian Routledge, care support worker at Maple House Pathways, with Extra Care resident, Kathleen Williams

Jobs in adult social care are increasing, offering a wide range of long-term career opportunities, as well as the chance to be part of the biggest reform of the sector in a generation.

The Government has committed to providing £5.4 billion of additional funding to reform social care over the next three years, including £500 million to support training and career development for the workforce.

For those who enjoy working with people and consider themselves to be kind, compassionate and resilient, a job in adult social care with Durham County Council could be the start of a rewarding, long-term career.

Clare Rain, care support worker at Peterlee Pathways, with a service user Maria Catleugh

Experience and qualifications are not required for all roles, as training will be provided on the job, making it an ideal career for those just out of education, looking to retrain or simply seeking a new challenge.

County Durham Care and Support (CDCS) is Durham County Council’s in-house care provider, delivering care to a wide range of people with varying needs. There are opportunities available across the county, meaning people can care for those in their own communities.

There are also roles for more experienced care staff, allowing those who have already embarked on a career in care to develop their skills.

Cllr Paul Sexton, the council’s Cabinet member for adult and health services, said: “It has been a challenging time for the industry, but we are now looking forward to a new chapter, with Government backing to ensure careers in care are an attractive and long-term option to those seeking work.

Lynne Hale, care support worker at Peterlee Pathways, and service user Isaac Brown

“This is a great time to embark upon a rewarding career in a growing industry and is also an opportunity to make a positive difference to the lives of people in your community.”

Care services in County Durham

Extra Care

Extra Care offers people aged 55 plus, or those with needs associated with a specific condition, an alternative to moving into a care home. Residents live in their own apartment within a complex, with 24-hour care and support available. There are seven Extra Care schemes throughout County Durham with care staff managed by CDCS. These are located in Barnard Castle, Ouston, Seaham, Consett, Brandon, Spennymoor and Crook.

Pathways

A specialist service for people with complex care and support needs, providing a safe, stable and joyful environment that enables people to challenge perceptions and to flourish. Pathways delivers a wide range of lively and enriching activities in warm and welcoming hubs, supporting people to do everyday things in their community. There are five Pathways Hubs across County Durham, located at Pity Me, Peterlee, Newton Aycliffe, Spennymoor and Stanley.

Hawthorn House

Hawthorn House is a CQC Outstanding-rated service, based in Framwellgate Moor, Durham, and offers short break accommodation for people with learning disabilities who have care and support needs.

Support and Recovery

This is a county-wide service offering support to help with the recovery and rehabilitation of those with more complex mental health needs.

Why choose a career with County Durham Care and Support (CDCS)?

CDCS’s vision is to help service users unlock their potential and meet their personal goals, whatever level of support they need.

CDCS is looking for people who can help the team continue to provide outstanding service, delivering high-quality care in a safe and supportive environment. In return, employees will receive a structured career path, which includes full training, professional development and the opportunity to be part of a supportive team.

Staff will be given guaranteed hours with the opportunity for overtime and all equipment will be provided, including uniforms where needed.

Employees will also be given access to Durham County Council’s pension scheme and Employee Assistance Programme. This offers a range of support services, which are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to help staff deal with any personal or professional problems impacting on their general health and wellbeing.

CDCS has a rolling recruitment campaign for a variety of care roles available across County Durham to suit a variety of skills and experience.

Karen Vasey, team manager for CDCS, said: “If you believe you have the right personal qualities for a career in adult social care, we would love to hear from you.

“Whether you are an experienced care worker or just starting out, there are lots of different roles available. You could be helping people with their personal care needs, supporting someone to become more independent or just giving someone your time and putting a smile on their face.

“When you work in adult social care, no two days are ever the same, and our supportive team will be behind you every step of the way.”

Care support worker Clare Rain, aged 39 and working at the Pathways Hub in Peterlee, said: “There’s nothing more rewarding than making a positive difference in someone’s life. Helping individuals to be independent and confident in their abilities and ensuring a great quality of life is why I chose to work in Pathways.”

To find out more about a career with CDCS, visit www.durham.gov.uk/jobfeed

Jobseekers who do not see a position that suits their needs can also contact the team on [email protected] as there may be opportunities coming up soon.