GWYNEDD Council's Cabinet has committed over £700,000 to employing more carers to support vulnerable people in the county over the coming months.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Council anticipates that there will be greater demand for health and care services in Gwynedd's communities, and is launching a ‘Dare to Care’ campaign to recruit more staff in this important sector.

At the last Gwynedd Council Cabinet meeting, councillors heard that the county's care providers have coped remarkably well so far. But with a second wave looming, home care services, residential homes, and support for individuals with learning disabilities will come under considerable pressure over the coming months.

Councillor Dafydd Meurig, Gwynedd Council's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Care, said: “As a Council we have decided to allocate more money than usual to the care sector in the county in order to respond to the inevitable increase in demand for social care services.

“Our main priority is to protect the people of Gwynedd, our staff, and fill staffing gaps that appear due to Covid-19.”

The Council is launching a campaign aimed at recruiting dozens of new employees, both part-time and full-time, over the coming weeks.

Councillor Dafydd Meurig added: “The ‘Dare to Care’ campaign will target individuals who want to make a difference, support people in their communities, change or develop a career in health and care, or step forward to help in times of crisis.

“This is a difficult and turbulent time for many, with increasing numbers of people facing a reduction in their income or being made unemployed.

“Turning to a career in the health and care sector temporarily or permanently, could provide solutions for us as a Council, and for people in Gwynedd who are currently facing an uncertain situation. The most important qualification required is an interest in people and a desire to help and make a difference in their local area.”

Gwynedd Council offers training, good working terms and regular hours, and the opportunity to help the county’s vulnerable residents to live as fulfilled lives as possible. Full and part time work will be available with opportunities to begin straight away.

Anyone interested in a job in the care sector with Gwynedd Council can contact Gill or Elen for a chat on 07384876908 or email: gofalu@gwynedd.llyw.cymru