The Government of Jersey is investing £621,500 into the growth of Jersey’s Home Care sector.
The initiative – called ‘Help at Home’ – aims to recruit 100 new staff into the sector and fund their salaries while they are training. The scheme is also funding the upskilling of 50 existing employees in the sector.
‘Help at Home’ forms part of the Government of Jersey’s £50m ‘Fiscal Stimulus Fund’ to support Jersey’s economic recovery following COVID-19. Developing the Home Care sector is critical for the future health and wellbeing of vulnerable Islanders in light of projections for Jersey’s growing and aging population.
Home Care services allow a person with special physical or mental needs to live independently and safely for as long as possible within their home. It might be for people who have an age-related disease. It could also be for people who are chronically ill, recovering from surgery or an injury, or have a disability.
The Minister for Health and Social Services, Deputy Richard Renouf, says, “The Government acknowledges that Jersey’s aging population is growing, and as such, we must ensure that as an Island we are appropriately prepared to look after our vulnerable population.
“This investment will see Islanders benefit from an alternative care option over the coming years and decades. This includes Islanders who want the option of receiving sustainable and cost-effective care within their homes; hundreds of current and future staff who will benefit from job-security in a developing sector; and dozens of local Home Care organisations that will benefit from business growth.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank representatives from the Home Care sector for all of their constructive support, ideas, and advice as part of the design of the Help at Home recruitment drive.”
Cheryl Kenealy, Chair of the Jersey Care Federation, says, “Often, Islanders who could and should be cared for in the familiar environment of their own homes – if that is their wish – aren’t. This is because the Home Care sector has been under-resourced, causing some Islanders to move into Care Homes too early. This isn’t sustainable considering the growing and aging population, and as such, ‘Help at Home’ has the Home Care sector’s full support and backing.
“I would like to encourage as many Islanders as possible to apply for a role in Home Care. You could be a student, currently working in hospitality or retail, or maybe considering returning to work after having children. We are looking for people who are personable, friendly, and compassionate, with a desire to help people. A job in Home Care brings with it the privilege of making a difference and building relationships with amazing people. You will also benefit from flexible working hours, job security, and ongoing growth and professional development.”
The ‘Help at Home’ scheme will run until March 2022. Find out more and apply for a job here.
