More than 30 people from the African community in Swansea have completed a three-day Introduction to social care course, to help set them on the pathway for a career in care.
Two groups from the African Community Centre in Swansea completed the three-day online course, during which they learned about working in social care, which roles are available and the responsibilities that come with them.
The programme, which is a partnership between WeCare Wales, Swansea’s African Community Centre, and Swansea Working is an important step in helping to make sure the social care workforce represents the communities they work in. It also aims to bring more experience and diversity to the workforce.
Anyone who takes part in the African Community Centre programme is assigned a mentor to help get them job-ready, if they decide to start a career in social care. The mentor’s role includes sharing interview skills and discussing which qualifications may be needed.
Kemi was one of the participants. She said:
"I’m so how thankful for the opportunity to train with the help of the African Community Centre. It was amazing to attend the online training.”
WeCare Wales is trying to break down barriers that make it difficult for people to get jobs in social care. Anyone who completes the Introduction to social care course can show social care employers their completion certificates as part of the WeCare Wales guaranteed interview scheme to help them find work. This shows employers these candidates are committed and know what to expect from the job.
Following the first two groups' success, the African Community Centre and WeCare Wales will be running another course in October.