A home care company are encouraging people to future proof their careers as they pledge to build an army of caregivers.

Bosses at Home Instead, Dartford declare that caring is a "job of the future" in the midst of uncertainty as the furlough scheme reaches an end.

Home care has seen a huge demand increase due to an ageing population but it is estimated that 112,000 jobs are unfilled in England.

Diane Charlesworth joined the care team alongside her role in retail which she lost due to the pandemic but this allowed her to work more hours at the company.

She said: "After retail opened back up, I realised that working for Home Instead was more fulfilling and had given me more of a purpose. No two days are the same and I can honestly say I look forward to going to work every day.

"Through Home Instead, I am completing ongoing training which will help me to progress in my role, and the support offered by the team is second to none. I work with the most supportive and genuine people, from all walks of life."

The company suggest that working in care gives more job security than sectors such as travel and hospitality which has seen people lose their jobs.

Christina Uppenkamp, co-owner with Ram Chandra Thapa, said: "Our sector has seen massive expansion throughout the pandemic and is just continuing to grow. We have a huge number of clients across the area looking for care and companionship.

"For some, this is as simple as help with chores and companionship, but there are also opportunities to provide specialist care to seniors living with dementia or Parkinson’s. And there are real career opportunities too with chances to progress your career in the social care sector."

The Dartford company have several vacancies open helping clients across Erith, Bexley, Dartford and Gravesend.

For more information on the vacancies in Dartford, please call 01322 923750 or visit www.homeinstead.co.uk/dartford/.

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