Listen to Moray carers – Eagle

A MORAY councillor says it is time to take note of carers' concerns as the council struggles to recruit enough social care staff to cope with demand.

Conservative councillor Tim Eagle (Buckie) is particularly concerned at problems arising in communities such as Keith and Forres.

Cllr Eagle said: "Moray has struggled to recruit social care staff leading to severe issues in various areas, particularly in Keith and Forres at the end of last year. This has a big impact on those who need care in order to live as independently as possible at home or in care home settings."

A member of the Moray Integrated Joint Board (MIJB), which has responsibility for adult health and social care in Moray, Cllr Eagle said: "Although I was aware that demand was increasing it has only been during my time on this board I realise just how much demand there is for home care now.

"Sadly, over the last year, Moray has had huge challenges recruiting care staff and this has led to many people, desperate to get home from hospitals or care homes, unable to do so. It has also put pressures on the many hard-working, dedicated staff we already have."

Cllr Eagle said care staff had too many demands placed upon them and there were many reasons for the recruitment gap.

He added: "I am worried that one of those reasons is we do not listen enough to the concerns of staff currently doing the job.

"Working as care staff in the communities, in care homes or with housing support is a great opportunity but I believe it is important we make sure we are providing a safe and enjoyable experience for our staff. We should not place demands on them which cannot be met and should ensure they have the time to truly do what they enjoy – being with those they care for."

Cllr Eagle said he was "always keen to hear more about life on the job" and urged social care staff with concerns they think need aired at board level to get in touch.

"I understand the Scottish Government will be running a major recruitment campaign soon and I want to encourage people to come forward if they think a career in care might be for them. Whatever your background or availability it might just be we have the vacancy for you in Moray which could make a big difference to someone's life," he added.

Drop-in information sessions were held this week in Buckie, Rothes and Keith for people to find out more about work as social care assistants with Health and Social Care Moray, who play a vital role in supporting people to continue living at home for as long as possible.

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