IF you enjoy looking after others and want people to feel safe and cared for, then a new initiative by Essex County Council could be for you.

The council are working with boroughs, districts and care providers and is asking residents to consider working for the care sector to improve the lives of elderly and vulnerable people.

Job fairs will be touring the county, including a visit to Maldon, and will give job seekers the chance to meet local employers to find out about the rewards of caring for others.

People who go along will have the chance to apply and be informally interviewed on the day to learn about the training, apprenticeships and one-on-one support.

The fairs and ‘be the reason…’ message are part of The Gift of Care campaign launched last year to change the perception of working in social care and reduce the recruitment shortfall.

More than 450 vacancies are advertised each month by the county’s 1,300 care providers, which go from cleaners and caters to specialists, social workers and therapists, full and part time.

Dick Madden, ECC Cabinet Member for Adults and Children, said: “Often a care worker is the only reason an elderly or vulnerable person is able to get up, go out or have a chat or a laugh each day.

“Care organisations and individuals are doing wonderful work but there is a skills shortage across the county. Employers need more caring and compassionate people to join them to provide the care our elderly and vulnerable residents need.”

The Gift of Care job fair will come to Maldon District Council offices on Princes Road on Monday from 10am to 2pm.

Visit www.essexgiftofcare.org.uk.