700 people sign up to give personal care to the vulnerable
Staffordshire County Council’s call out for people to help with personal care roles has seen nearly 700 people step up.
Both volunteer and paid roles are available through the county council’s iCare campaign, which sees people being trained to carry out essential personal care tasks for elderly and vulnerable people.
The aim of the campaign is to create an emergency workforce that is available to be deployed if regular social care workers are unable carry out their duties, either due to having coronavirus or having to self isolate.
Those who have stepped up to help out are currently being trained and checked, and are also getting the opportunity to shadow current workers.
Care will be given to the most vulnerable residents, who rely on personal care to keep them out of hospital and safe in their homes.
Businesses are also being encouraged to help out, by letting furloughed staff know they can volunteer for personal care roles while at home from their normal jobs.
Councillor Alan White, deputy leader and cabinet member for health, care and wellbeing said: “Our carers provide personal care to thousands of vulnerable people across Staffordshire, and this demand has only increased as the Covid-19 pandemic continues across the country.
“We have been overwhelmed with the response to our iCare campaign. These people are ensuring that the most vulnerable in the county can still receive the care they rely on.
“Though people are still receiving care, we are planning for the future and know that we need more carers for our vulnerable residents. This is to help keep them safe and well, and help ease the pressure on the NHS especially during the peak of the virus.
“We would still like more people to sign up if they can, so if you think you can help, please visit our website.”
People can get more information on the campaign at staffordshire.gov.uk/icare.
