Everton in the Community is helping young people to pursue careers in Health and Social Care, as part of a brand new initiative.

The charity, which is part of Everton FC, has launched SCORE (Supporting Career Opportunities, Recruitment and Employment) in a bid to help tackle staff shortages across the health and social care sector.

Funded by The Prince’s Trust, the programme will give young people aged 16-30 from across Liverpool City Region access to training, employment support, apprenticeships and one-to-one mentoring, enabling them to kick-start their career path.

Opportunities range from frontline roles through to support services that help the sector to function, such as IT, catering, finance, administration, facilities management and logistics.

SCORE, which launches today (Tuesday 1st February), is part of more than 40 programmes run by Everton in the Community every year, each one specifically designed and developed to combat challenges which are prevalent across Merseyside.

Its social programmes tackle issues such as mental health, employability, dementia, education, disability, poverty and homelessness.

Senior Programme Manager John McDonald, who is leading SCORE, said:

“Working alongside The Prince’s Trust, our latest employability programme presents a fantastic opportunity to join one of the most rewarding industries of employment.

“Whether you’re searching for employment, or looking for a change, we can help develop your skills and confidence to start a new and exciting career.”

As part of the initiative, participants will be given a dedicated work coach who will provide support to secure employment. They will also get the chance to hear from guest speakers within the industry, enabling them to gain insight and hear from those already in the sector.

In addition to high vacancy rates, both the NHS and social care have an ageing workforce, with an average age of 43 and 44 years of age respectively. Only six percent of the NHS workforce is under 25.

John added: “During the last couple of years, we have all become more appreciative of, and grateful for, our wonderful Health and Social Care workers across the country.

“As the sector faces a crucial time of staff shortages, it’s important that the next generation of healthcare workers have the tools and skills they need to access their chosen career and we’re looking forward to helping local young people take the first steps towards their future.”

For more information about SCORE, the new Everton in the Community programme, click here.

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