New free resource encouraging more people to be Proud to Care

A new website has been launched aimed at bringing more people to caring positions in Oxfordshire.

Proud to Care Oxfordshire has been developed by Oxfordshire County Council in partnership with Oxfordshire Association of Care Providers (OACP). The website highlights the broad range of jobs available in the care sector as well as providing a free platform for care providers to advertise any opportunities they have available.

Councillor Tim Bearder, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: “Care workers are the lifeblood of our social care system and it’s no secret that we need more people to take up these important roles both nationally and here in Oxfordshire.

“As a council, it’s our job to help develop and maintain a local sustainable care market and this resource will play an important part by allowing providers to advertise their opportunities and for job hunters to find their ideal position all in the same place.”

As well as a job search tool, the resource includes an email service for potential applicants, helping to match people to available positions and support them through the process.

The website also highlights the breadth of caring positions on offer in Oxfordshire, including interviews with people like Mariana Bernardo, who are already doing the job and explaining why they enjoy it.

Mariana is a community support worker for Witney community support service and says: “Being a carer definitely changes lives, not just for us but for the people we support. The team is amazing, everyone supports each other. I wouldn’t change anything!”

The site also provides local information on support services, funding and initiatives to help people get into work and apprenticeships, supporting their development and training.

Eddy McDowall, Chief Executive of OACP, said: “It’s really important that we attract new people into the care sector.

“Caring is one of the most varied and rewarding professions you can be a part of and welcomes people from a wide range of backgrounds and experience. There is a position out there for everyone!”

The website is now live and can be found at proudtocareoxfordshire.org.uk

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