The government has awarded Dorset Council £1,728,324 to boost staffing levels in the social care sector in the wake of coronavirus.

Staff absence rates in care homes and the home care sector have increased significantly across the country as many workers are testing positive or having to self-isolate. The funding can provide additional care staff where shortages arise, support administrative tasks so experienced and skilled staff can focus on providing care and help existing staff to take on additional hours if they wish with overtime payments or by covering childcare costs.

Care Minister Helen Whately said: “This additional funding gives a boost to the social care workforce during some of the most difficult days of this pandemic so far. Care workers have been doing the most amazing job throughout the pandemic. In challenging circumstances, they have been caring for some of the people most at risk from this virus with compassion and skill.”

A Dorset Council spokesperson said: “It’s great news that we have been awarded additional funding to help boost staffing levels across the care sector. All care settings are facing increased pressure due to covid-19 and we’re working with care providers to make sure they continue to receive the high level of support they need and deserve at this time help them manage infection control and staffing. Dorset Council has been running a recruitment campaign on behalf of the sector since before Christmas. Anyone interested in a career in social care can apply through our website dorsetsocialcare.co.uk.”

Support Us

Thank you all so, so much for the love and appreciation you’ve shown us since we launched the New Blackmore Vale.

Please show your support and add a review on our Facebook page or on Google.