Importance of local care workers highlighted

The role of care workers locally has helped demonstrate the importance of the role and the opportunities for it as a career, according to a Newtown care agency.

Abacare said care roles represent jobs for life in economically uncertain times and with the threat of a recession following in the aftermath of Covid-19.
 
Neil Griffiths, Regional Manager at Abacare, said: “There are jobs in care for those who are people-focused and we’ve already seen some transfer their skills to us from various shops, tourist attractions and, also, professions like hairdressing and beauty therapy.
 
“Prior to the lockdown, most high street retailers were already reporting poor sales from their stores and we saw lots of big names close down.

"Now, as we start to tentatively emerge from the coronavirus and navigate the ‘new normal’, many chains are saying they will be reducing the number of shops they have and cutting back on their workforces.
 
“People who work in hospitality, tourism and catering are also now worried for their positions, as furlough schemes taper off this summer into autumn and restrictions mean customer numbers will be much lower.

"These are worrying times for anyone who works in a customer-facing role, as the nation’s shopping and leisure habits are likely to change dramatically in the coming months.
 
“Some brands have already announced cuts and closures, so it’s now more important than ever to ensure people are aware of the roles we have available in the care sector.
 
“The demand for carers in Wales will not fall and our profession represents one of the few jobs for life left in the country."

He added: “We hope after the publicity of carers during the COVID-19 pandemic, people now have a better understanding of care and see it as a highly skilled, professional, vocational occupation that is essential to the fabric of our society. Carers deserve admiration and respect."