Support staff wanted for Home First Service

Published: 3 December 2020

A major recruitment drive is underway to find talented individuals who can support a key care service in Derby.

Social care has dominated the nation’s interest for much of this year and highlighted the amazing role that care support staff play in the community.

With demand on the increase for our services, an exciting opportunity has arisen for more than 40 Support Staff to join Derby City Council’s award-winning Home First Care team this winter.

Home First is the name given to Derby’s Discharge to Assess (D2A) service which provides short-term assessment to people in their own homes or in a community-based setting.

There is now an emerging need to provide support to patients suffering with delirium. Delirium or sudden confusion can affect anyone, with or without a history of the condition in the family. People who are aged 65 and over, or who are overcoming an infection, stroke, head injury or have diabetes are more vulnerable.

Councillor Roy Webb, Cabinet Member for Adults, Health and Housing said:

We look after some of the most vulnerable and frail people in our community who have been discharged from hospital and now we’re on the lookout for people who can really make a difference.

The effects of COVID-19 is being felt in every corner of our community, and especially for patients with complex needs.

Generally, people tend to recuperate better in a home care setting and this enhanced pathway is specifically focused on supporting patients who are suffering short term confusion, or delirium. People with this condition may feel disorientated, see or hear things that aren’t there, and may get frustrated when expressing their feelings.

We’re not necessarily looking for people who possess care experience - although that would be helpful - just a caring attitude and a willingness to learn.

Initial and ongoing training will be provided for career progression and generous salary package is available as employees of Derby City Council. Candidates must have access to a vehicle.

To find out more please visit the Council recruitment pages or email Sue.Bliss@derby.gov.uk for an informal discussion about the roles.

Vacancies close on Friday 10th January 2021.

Community, Health