Devon residents including job seekers, students back from university, college leavers and former care and health staff are needed now to support the county’s most vulnerable.

Healthcare Assistants are a frontline role to support the NHS and social care as coronavirus puts even greater pressure on existing services and staff.

Both temporary and permanent workers are needed to fill a variety of shift work, including evening and weekends, in residential homes, hospitals and in peoples own homes.

You may need to support people with their personal care needs which could include assisting with nutrition, drinking and washing.

Applicants don’t necessarily need qualifications or previous work experience. Devon County Council will support applicants with free DBS checks and free essential training.

Applicants can register their details at proudtocaredevon.org.uk. It only takes a couple of minutes and all that is needed is the applicant’s name, postcode, email and phone number.

Trained or registered healthcare professionals in a number of professions are also needed now.

There are roles in social work, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and care and support and registered care managers are also needed. These can also be viewed through the Proud to Care website.

There are also opportunities available in the wider healthcare team. Roles including cleaners, chefs, security, administration and human resources are also available.

These dedicated non-clinical workers are vital in supporting our health and social care services. Without them, medical and clinical staff can’t operate and look after patients.

Philippa Slinger, lead chief executive for Together for Devon, the county’s Sustainability and Transformation Partnership, said:

“The amazing scenes we saw during the recent ‘clap for carers’ show how highly people value our inspirational health and care workers.

“Joining the health and social care team in Devon gives you the chance to make a real difference to the lives of people who need help, especially at this time of need.

“We know people in Devon want to do whatever they can to support the cause and by getting a job in health and care, you could play a valuable role.

“As well as frontline jobs like healthcare assistants, there are so many other roles that help social care and the NHS to function – without these dedicated non-clinical workers, medical and clinical staff can’t operate and look after patients.”

Councillor Andrew Leadbetter, Devon County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Health and Social Care said:

“Social care and health care staff are working around the clock to protect and support the most vulnerable in our county and need help now to support them and reduce the strain on existing staff.

“We understand people’s personal circumstances are different – some may have finished college or university for the year, others may have recently been made redundant or found themselves not working because of coronavirus.

“The Healthcare Assistant role is a chance to help the county’s most vulnerable and to support health and care professionals during these difficult times.

“Qualifications aren’t necessarily important; what’s important are an applicant’s values and attitude towards working with people and patients who need care, and your ability to cope in challenging environments.”

Go to the Proud to Care website to register your details or find the latest jobs.