Fear of COVID-19 in care homes is driving families to seek live-in care for their relatives and care provider Elder is now creating 150 new jobs in Liverpool. Tony McDonough reports

Live-in care company Elder is creating 150 new jobs on Liverpool to meet demand from families reluctant to put their loved ones into care homes.

Elder says it is actively recruiting for professional, full-time carers who move into the home of its service users requiring care. The company has seen a huge increase in demand as families search out an alternative to residential care following the pandemic.

In the North West, Elder has seen an increase of more than 19% of families opting for live-in care compared to the same period last year. Many people died in care homes due to COVID-19 and this has accelerated the trend of in-home care.

Chief executive Pete Dowds said: “During 2020, COVID-19 mortality rates at Elder were 83% lower in comparison to care homes, with huge thanks to the carers we work with showing unbelievable acts of selflessness.

“Many stayed with their clients, shielding them from the risk of infection, for up to three months without a break. It was a staggering level of dedication and there’s no doubt it saved lives.

“For those who need care, it’s important that they are offered the chance to choose where they are most comfortable. For many, this may still be the care home, but this could also be due to a lack of awareness around other care options.”

Elder is actively asking those experienced in the sector who have lost their jobs or been inspired by carers throughout COVID-19, to apply to become a carer on the Elder website.

Mr Dowds added: “You may have been inspired by the heroic efforts of care workers throughout the pandemic. You may be working in the health and social care space but want more flexibility over your schedule. You may have spent time looking after a loved one and seen how rewarding this sector can be.

“Whichever of these situations you’re in, we want to hear from you. You can be an integral part of a solution that’s keeping people safe and helping people get access to the care option they’d prefer.”