ANYONE who has received social care, in their own home or in a care home, for example, will know the hugely positive impact it has on quality of life and a person’s ability to live life to the fullest even as they age or become less able.

Anyone who has seen the benefits social care has had on a family member or loved one will know how vital that support is.

Social care can be provided long term, or it could be needed for a time after a stay in hospital. The work, and the people who do it, are integral to the wider care system, which includes NHS services such as hospitals and GPs.

In South Gloucestershire, we have an ageing population and in some communities a shortage of social care staff to help look after some of our older residents, particularly in Thornbury and Yate and surrounding areas.

That is why we are running a campaign called Proud To Care, to highlight the roles available right now, letting people who already work in care talk about how the job fits around their life and how rewarding it can be to support people to thrive as they get older.

They are asking: We care in South Glos, could you? For many, the answer could be yes. Social care work can be flexible, fitting around family life or studies.

Two recruitment events are taking place in Thornbury and Yate in February, on Tuesday 7, 11.30am – 3.30pm at Turnberrie’s Community Centre; and on Wednesday 15, 12.30pm – 4.30pm at Yate Active Lifestyle Centre.

If you want to find out more, please visit the website www.proudtocaresouthglos.org.uk for more information about the work and the events next month.