BBC News Midlands featured Visiting Angels East Staffordshire in their article titled “Minimum wage has no part to play in care” which is a spotlight on low rates of pay in the care sector and the difficulties in retaining staff.
Our MD Helen Lofts talked to them about how they are addressing and battling the problem by being Carer Centric.
Visiting Angels East Staffordshire, have increased care client fees by 13% in part to ensure their 21 staff receive an hourly rate at least £2-£3 above the minimum wage.
“Business costs are also up by an average of 15% and we raised our pay rates by 15-17%,” said Helen.
“It is a model that’s working. And it is about retaining the staff, because if you can retain the staff, you’re not then forking out the money to keep recruiting new staff.
“It’s a lot better to spend the money on the staff that you’ve got and already value.”
She added: “We pay them mileage between their calls, we pay them travel time between their calls. We pay their MOTs and we pay towards the servicing of their cars.
“If you value your carers, they will stay with you. And it’s not just about pay, it’s about support in so many different ways.”
Many of Visiting Angels’ clients are self-funded, but some top up their local authority payments to receive their care.
The BBC also interviewed our Angel Erin Woodhouse and our valued clients to find out more about the level of care & support provided to both Carers and Clients.
Watch the video Below.
If you want to know more call us on 01283 319400 and we can explain the full benefits in working as an Angel.
If you want to know more call us on 01283 319400 or apply HERE and we can explain the full benefits in working as an Angel.
Story and Coverage by John Bray & Ben Godfrey (BBC News, West Midlands)
Read Full article by BBC HERE