Care and health careers fair hailed a huge success

More than 580 people descended on the Lord Louis Library in Newport last week to find out more about career opportunities within the Island's care and health sector.

Organised by the Isle of Wight Council, the event showcased the wide range of jobs, career paths and apprenticeships available on the Island to make a real difference to people's lives.

The day also provided an opportunity for those interested in a rewarding career in care and health to talk to staff to find out what skills are needed to get into these vital roles.

Among the organisations in attendance were Mountbatten, the Isle of Wight NHS Trust, Alzheimer Cafe, Practice Plus Group and a host of independent care providers from around the Island, along with council teams from adult social care, children's services and public health.

Katy Harwood, the council's recruitment team leader, said: "We wanted to shine a spotlight on the rewarding careers available locally.

"We need more people to join the Island's care and health workforce supporting Island residents when they need it most.

"A career in care and health is so much more than people may think, so this event was a great opportunity to bring together a wide range of organisations and showcase the different types of jobs available and how valuable this work is.

"Lots of employers had productive discussions on the day and potential hires which was great to hear.

"As well as our sector employers, it was also good to see visitors engaging with additional support and training/learning services represented through Isle of Wight College, Adult Learning, DWP, Working Towards Wellbeing and National Careers Service.

“I hope all involved found it a rewarding day, and that visitors left feeling inspired to pursue a career in care and health."

Councillor Debbie Andre, Cabinet member for adult social care and public health, added: "A career in health and social care can be incredibly rewarding and there are many different career paths that people can follow.

"This event highlighted not only the range of employment available, but that entry can be open at any stage of life and that previous life experience can be a great advantage in enabling those supported to live their best lives through those joining the caring profession.”