BRADFORD Council is urgently working to amass an "army of social care heroes."

The authority is working with employers to help the district through the Coronavirus pandemic, and is looking for people who would be interested in assisting some of the district’s most vulnerable residents during the Coronavirus crisis.

Working with social care providers across the district, the council is planning on launching a fast-track recruitment drive to ensure enough care staff are in place to continue to support residents during the outbreak.

Bradford Council’s SkillsHouse, which works with employers and jobseekers to fill vacancies across the district, is keen to hear from anyone who feels they may have the skills to help. Experience is not essential as training will be provided.

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Councillor Sarah Ferriby, Bradford Council’s portfolio holder for healthy people and places, said: “We are doing all we can to keep vital services going and boosting the numbers or social care workers is essential.

“Care work is incredibly important and very rewarding. The people who rise to the challenge of these roles will really make a difference in their communities during these difficult times.

“Whether you are someone who used to work in health and social care and is now looking to return, a third-year health and care student keen to secure their first role, a volunteer who wants to help out or a jobseeker who feels a care role would suit you, please register your interest with SkillsHouse.

“By working together we can help people develop their skills and ensure that our most vulnerable people continue to be well cared for throughout the COVID-19 situation.”

Councillor Imran Khan, Bradford Council's portfolio holder for education, employment and skills, said: “SkillsHouse has a proud record of working to connect residents with training and jobs whilst also supporting employers to meet skills needs in the district.

“This project is a great example of working collaboratively for the benefit of the whole Bradford District. It can help people develop their skills, plug gaps for employers and ensure that essential services continue to be provided to people who need them.”

Anyone interested should email Skillshouse@bradford.gov.uk for an application form.