Future carers boost career prospects
Career seekers from across Cornwall have made the most of a one-off event to boost their skills and get their foot in the door at a range of local care companies.
The three-day ‘Get Hired in Care’ training programme offered by Truro and Penwith College gave students an introduction into working in health and social care, as well as the chance to increase their employability by achieving the NCFE Level 1 Mental Health qualification.
An event featuring care providers from across the county concluded the course, enabling the students to discover more about the opportunities available in Cornwall. Cornwall Care, Propercare, Able Care, Cormac Care, United Response and Carers’ Break all made 5 minute pitches to the group to explain who they are, what they do, and why they are good to work for.
The students were then invited to sit down with each employer for an informal, one to one chat about job or apprenticeship vacancies, with many leaving the event with application forms or interviews to start their care career.
Mollie Preston, from Truro, said: “In previous employment as a hairdresser I was naturally drawn to the elderly clients and loved talking with them, this inspired me to make a career change and start a job in care. It was really good today, but daunting. It was a great opportunity to meet so many employers and I now have four job applications or interviews.”
Maria DiCarlo, from Falmouth, said: “The course has been great, way beyond my expectations, plus gaining a qualification has been amazing. I was made redundant from my dream job related to care, my self-esteem was knocked as a result. This course and experience has boosted my confidence. It has been brilliant being able to actually meet employers and I have many prospects for interviews and application forms.”
Mary Ryan, one of the course tutors, added: “Everyone was buoyant, enthusiastic, and raring to go. It was a great opportunity for all involved and offered great job prospects.”
Madeline Richardson, Project Co-ordinator for the event, said: “I was thrilled with the way all of the learners supported each other and grew in confidence throughout their training with the College. The employers who took part expressed how impressed they were with the candidates they met and a number of job offers have already been made.”
Linda Hutchinson, Health and Social Care Lead Co-ordinator, commented: “With the fantastic results, which has included recruiting to Apprenticeships, we are excited by the prospect of a similar programme running again this year.”
The programme was fully funded for those who were: unemployed, employed for less than 8 hours per week or economically inactive; 19+; living in Cornwall; and actively seeking work. The event was supported by Gap Funding from the LPCo.
