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News

Tackling shortages in care staff

Recommendations from the Borough of Poole’s Care Policy Advisory Group (PAG) to help recruit and retain staff in key areas of care work will be considered by the Council’s Executive on 24 October 2001.

Following its meeting on 10 October, members of Poole’s Care PAG were advised that in many areas Poole bucked national trends by continuing to recruit social workers, occupational therapists and other care professionals.

Whilst the Council has been recognised as a good local authority employer, recruiting "hands-on" care staff for home care services and residential homes is part of a national problem, with a number of employers chasing the same workers due to near full employment.

Councillor Meachin, Chairman of the Group, said: "Many of our staff have been with us for many years, provide an excellent service and are loyal both to the Council and the vulnerable people they serve. New recruits, however, can sometimes feel the demands are too much for them and leave quickly for other occupations. Clearly the challenge is to make sure staff are trained, paid and supported enough to provide these much needed services."

The Policy Advisory Group, also recommended:

• Holding a job fair, to showcase the many jobs and careers within the Council.
•  Initiating a trainee scheme to attract younger people into public service.
• Advertising all posts more widely.
• Allowing staff over 65 to remain at work if they wish to continue in employment.
•  Endeavouring to develop more affordable housing for its staff

Charlie Sheldrick, Head of Adult Social Services Commissioning