In the two months since the COVID-19 pandemic reached Scotland we’ve all had to make significant changes to the way we work and live to make sure the most vulnerable people in our communities continue to receive the care and support they need.
Right across the country social service workers have continued to deliver high standard person-centred care while dealing with increased pressures and changing work practices and I’d like to thank you all for your professionalism, commitment and hard work.
The work that you do each day, with skill, compassion and kindness has never been more valued and we are working with colleagues across the care sector to gather and share your stories and the experiences of the people you support.
Recruiting staff
Since launching the national recruitment hub for social care just over a month ago more than 3,000 people have come forward to work during the pandemic, many of them having worked in social care before. And more than 300 people have applied to join the temporary social work register.
We’re carrying out pre-employment checks and matching these people to employers so they can quickly fill vacancies to help them keep on delivering services.
Last week we published guidance for employers on how they can access these social care workers and important information on funding to support them with critical staff shortages.
Support for you
Sadly, as COVID-19 progresses we are seeing more deaths in Scotland, particularly in care homes for older people, and among valued social service workers. Every loss will be keenly felt by families and I join many others in sending them my condolences.
You may find our new resource Support with death, dying and bereavement during COVID-19 helpful at this time.
It is important while caring for others that you also take time to care for yourself and we recognise staff health and wellbeing is at the forefront of dealing with this pandemic. Along with SSSC colleagues and others, I am working with the Scottish Government to support you with this. You can find ideas of how to support your own wellbeing and that of others in our new resource Workforce support and wellbeing during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Once more I’d like to thank all of you for helping Scotland tackle this crisis and we’ll continue to do everything we can to support you.
Lorraine Gray
Chief Executive
Scottish Social Services Council