AS demand for care services spiral, a Hagley homecare provider has announced the release of 30 free training places for caregivers.

Home Instead Senior Care in Stourbridge, Hagley and Halesowen are hoping to balance the scales after more people are now needed to provide care which will enable local elderly people to remain in their own homes for as long as possible.

Lorna Bath, owner of the Worcester Lane training provider, said: “The impact of a national shortage of carers is being felt locally and creating problems for the elderly in particular.

“That’s why we have just released 30 training places for people who wish to work in the care sector. Our service is companionship-based so people don’t need to have experience. What’s really important is that people have the right attitude and a caring and empathetic nature.

“The service we provide is focused on providing much-needed company and social stimulation to elderly people as well, of course, as more traditional care services.

“We match clients and caregivers based on shared interests and following initial induction training, our caregivers receive additional training based on the individual needs of the clients they are matched to.”

On completion of their initial training, caregivers will become eligible to receive the nationally recognised ‘Care Certificate’ and can go on to further develop their skills with additional qualifications.

Lorna added: “Our service is provided by a fabulous team of dedicated, caring and compassionate individuals, many of whom work part-time and all of whom are passionate about making a difference to their clients’ lives.”

Anyone interested in applying for one of Home Instead’s training places should visit www.homeinstead.co.uk/stourbridge-hagley-halesowen, or call 01562 885589.