AN ALLOA care worker is encouraging people to make a transition into the sector.

George Anderson, care quality lead at Cera Care's Scottish headquarters in Alloa, spoke about the rewarding role and the difference he can make to people's everyday lives.

Having previously worked in retail, pensions administration and in call centres, he had a good experience working with the public before making the switch.

He said: “As an outgoing personality with a caring compassionate nature, I knew I would be well suited to this work. I always wanted to work in social care – I wanted to help people. And when friends tell you it’s a job you would be good at, it makes you think.”

George, originally from Glasgow, worked on the front line with the firm before being promoted in the office as care administrator and latterly as care quality lead.

“My role is to work out care plans for all the service users we care for, and ensure these are followed, giving our care workers their tasks,” he explained.

“A lot of skills you can learn on the job, but if you have the right attitude and personality, you will be good a working in the care sector.

“It’s not for everyone – but those in our teams derive enormous job satisfaction and know how much they are appreciated by the people we care for every day in our local communities.

“I really enjoy making a difference to peoples’ lives every single day through the work I do.”

Cera Care recently conducted a study into what motivates care workers despite the challenges of low pay.

It was found that more than half choose the career to derive a sense of reward from their day-to-day work while many have previously cared for a loved one.

Others are looking to give back to their communities.

Felix Wetzel, a director with Cera Care, added: “Everything we do at Cera is to help people live longer, better and healthier lives in their own homes.

“We care because we know we are supporting the most vulnerable in our communities, providing reassurance and support to their families and relieving pressure from the NHS by keeping people out of hospital.”