200k+ retail job losses predicted in 2021 but Devon’s jobseekers can transfer skills to care   

SHOPWORKERS are being encouraged to transfer their skills to care by one of Exeter’s providers as analysts predict there will be more than 200,000 retail job losses nationwide in 2021 (January 2021).     

Guardian Homecare, which provides home care in and around Exeter, says experts report high street retailers are facing a terrible year ahead with more than 15,700 store closures anticipated.    

Catherine Porter, Manager for Guardian Homecare says: “According to the Centre for Retail Research (CRR), in 2020, as many as 177,000 jobs were lost from UK retail, that’s up by a quarter compared to 2019 and its predicting another 200,000 will be lost in 2021.   

“As we wait to hear about the final outcome of Debenhams, following the 19 store closures this time last year (January 2020), a further 28 stores are expected to shut this year, although details of the locations have not yet been released. The closures are expected to result in around 660 job losses.   

“Meanwhile, the high street is seeing other worrying trends with the John Lewis Partnership warning bonuses may be in doubt for staff, as it revealed a fall in festive sales. These are worrying times for those working in retail on the high street, especially as the third lockdown continues, but all is not lost.   

“We’re urging anyone seeking work from a customer-facing role to get in touch with us immediately, as the skills gained in retail are in high demand in our sector.”   

Guardian Homecare says those losing positions at major high street retailers should join the homecare sector, as a job in care can be a role for life for the right candidate.   

“Many people believe that the skills they’ve learnt in a certain industry mean they’re restricted when it comes to seeking new employment, but we want to let them know that this simply isn’t true, as many of the skills they already have can be adapted for a brand new industry, such as care.   

“People who work in retail, for example, have excellent customer service skills and know how to treat customers with respect and they are super helpful and friendly, and these are just some of the skills that our carers need when visiting our service users’ homes. Being trustworthy, organised, punctual and reliable, as well as being able to undertake admin tasks, are some great skills that are transferrable between industries.     

“We are offering the right candidates secure employment in the care industry, which can often mean a job for life. They’ll be able to bring all the experience they’ve acquired into our industry, as well as gain much more through training.”   

Guardian Homecare delivers personalised home care supporting people wishing to stay living safely and comfortably in their own homes in south Devon.    

Catherine explains: “We’re a tight knit team and we look after each other and give each other lots of support when needed. In my role organisational, communication and interpersonal skills are a must. 

“We give free uniforms and a national staff discount scheme for all major brands with exclusive discounts online and in-store from retailers including Tesco, Primark and Argos, as well as 28 days paid holiday, paid travel between calls, paid mileage and electrical goods.”    

Guardian Homecare provides all its staff with full, paid training and colleague shadowing at the start, and they have, additional, on the job support from the team 24 hours a day, seven days a week.   

It currently employs nearly 200 carers and is searching for more honest and kind-hearted individuals to help add to its teams in the county.   

Catherine adds: “We are looking for new recruits to help make a difference within communities across south Devon by caring for individuals seeking extra support.   

“Carers who join our team will help to provide domiciliary and live-in care as well as dementia care.”   

The large team of trained, specialist, care workers provide positive based outcomes and person centred care to people throughout south Devon.    

“We are fighting against the current economic climate and are filling more positions than ever. This is a great opportunity for those looking for a completely new and exciting opportunity in 2021 to work in this very rewarding role.    

“Being a carer is a really satisfying job and gives people the opportunity to create a worthwhile and long-term career for themselves.”    

Guardian Homecare offers training and the opportunity for internal advancement. Anyone who joins the team is creating a career path using the different qualifications they can achieve.   

“No experience is necessary to become a carer, as we offer free, full training, which includes a company induction, first aid, information on dementia, health and safety, food safety, infection control, handling medication and moving and handling service users, with the opportunity to achieve industry-recognised qualifications after the initial six months probationary period.”   

“Being dependable is key to this role as people will be looking after the needs of vulnerable adults. Applicants also need to be even-tempered and caring and must enjoy making a positive difference to people’s lives.     

“Being patient, able to cope with change and having the ability to display empathy and warmth are also essential. Candidates will need to have their own transport and mobile phone. We cover any costs incurred related to work.”   

Anyone wishing to find out more about Guardian Homecare, which provides care for Exeter and surrounding areas, should visit www.guardianhomecare.co.uk or https://www.facebook.com/GuardianHomecareUK/jobs/.