The Brotherhood is helping Carlton jobseekers connect with careers in aged care
Job opportunities in the aged care sector are burgeoning as Australia's population ages. The Brotherhood's Carlton Work and Learning Centre recognises this and is helping connect disadvantaged jobseekers with opportunities in the industry.
The Brotherhood's Carlton Work and Learning Centre recently held a seminar at the public housing estates that attracted twenty local people eager to learn about working with the elderly. Participants were informed about opportunities in the industry, what to expect when working in the sector and the qualifications needed to get a foot in the door.
Paul Brophy, manager of Sambell Lodge , the Brotherhood's residential aged care facility in Clifton Hill, spoke about the passion needed to work in aged care. He says caring for elderly people involves helping them connect with others and live their lives to the best of their capacity.
'Age shouldn't stop anyone from having a rich and fulfilling life,' he said. 'Our resident Barry is a testament to this. He runs raffles to raise money for the Children's Hospital and works as a volunteer for a soup van.'
Anna Beamish, from the Brotherhood's Workforce Solutions, briefed people about the requirements needed to work in residential aged care. She said candidates need: 'A minimum of Certificate III in aged care or equivalent, some level of computer literacy, and an ability to work shifts and regular hours.'
Helen Jones from Australian Unity told participants that a number of job opportunities will open up when they launch the Wellbeing Precinct in Carlton in March 2014. The centre will be one of the largest aged care and retirement living developments in Australia, housing 360 people.
Ms Jones said Australian Unity will be looking for: 'people who can work with residents, their families and colleagues in a team approach with strong customer service ethic.'
The Brotherhood's Work and Learning Centres help people connect with services, find and apply for jobs, access training and post placement support. The Victorian Government has provided $4.6 million over three years to fund five Work and Learning Centres across Victoria.
To find out more about work and learning opportunities in Carlton, phone Nicole Pappaioannou on 0438 321 428.