The ability to provide support for people who need care in their homes and visits throughout rural areas to assist with a range of requirements has been a huge problem. The capacity to deliver the number of visits required has not been in place and has led to existing care packages being reduced, delays in new care packages being assessed and implemented and, in some cases, the need for assistance by voluntary groups. Undoubtedly, the problem has been made worse by the impact of the Covid pandemic and the recruitment crisis that many sectors are now experiencing. However, an underlying problem, pre-dating these factors, is that there have not been dedicated teams in place to cover our large, rural area. This is now being addressed by the "Health & Social Care Partnership" (HSCP) and a "Rapid Rural Care" team is being established, with funding secured to recruit for the necessary posts.
An appeal is being launched to recruit people for these posts and you will find below some links to websites with general information about the work involved and details of two specific posts in rural areas that are now being advertised. Please feel free to pass on this information to anyone you know who may be interested.
HSCP Website - Background information
Stirling Council website - Rural Home Support worker
Stirling Council website - Rural Care Co-ordinator