A new jobs scheme to address the skills shortages in the health and social care sector has been launched in Aberdeen.
Developed by Aberdeen City Council’s employability service, ABZWorks Cares offers a 12-week work experience placement, paid at real living wage rate, to eligible unemployed city residents.
There is a guaranteed job interview for those who complete the placement, which provides a steadily increasing number of hours to help people transition into employment.
Hanna Bronk secured the first placement – as an activities co-ordinator and care assistant at Ashley House Residential Home.
Hanna said: “I'm really happy to start my placement, it is a great way to get into the sector. All of the residents are lovely and it’s a great place to work.”
Derek Rettie, managing director of Retcare Ltd, which owns Ashley House Residential Home, said: “I am delighted to offer Hanna a paid work experience placement in collaboration with ABZ Works.
“The scheme is an excellent initiative to encourage new people into the care sector and hopefully it will provide a good stepping-stone to long-term employment, not only in my business, but in others across Aberdeen.”
Council Co Leader Councillor Christian Allard said: “This is an excellent initiative which will not only support people into high quality, fair work, but also help address skills shortages in a growing and essential area which supports some of our most vulnerable residents.
“Health and social care offers a broad range of job opportunities, flexible working, and career progression routes and I look forward to hearing success stories both for individuals and employers.
“I’m delighted to hear that Hanna is enjoying this opportunity and wish her and others undertaking placements all the best in their future careers.”
Any health and social care employers interested in hosting a paid work experience placement, or unemployed city residents looking to gain experience in the sector should contact ABZWorks by emailing abzworks@aberdeencity.gov.uk or calling 01224 346100.
Image – Hanna Bronk (left) and Derek Rettie at Ashley House Residential Home