A young man from Weymouth has been held up as a shining example by the government as it launches a new scheme to attract more school leavers into the care industry.  Chris Ginifer, 22, who is a support worker for adults with learning difficulties at Foresters Residential Home in Alexandra Road, was invited to a conference to tell people about the job that he loves.  He spoke to more than 50 employers at a Care First Careers event in Taunton and told them how young people could be an asset to their workforce.

Care First Careers is a government initiative to encourage organisations involved in adult social care to recruit 18 to 24 – year – olds. Among the incentives is a new £1,000 cash recruitment subsidy as well as free pre – employment training for job applicants.

Chris said: “I enjoy being with the people at the residential home because I make a difference to them. When I walk in the room their faces light up and I know I’m going to enjoy another day at work.”

He added: “Doing this job can lead to other opportunities, you can climb up the ladder and become a manager or you can take time out like me and work abroad.  I’ve gained so much confidence and I’m still only 22.  I would say to any young person don’t be put off by what you think you know, have a go and make up your own mind.”

South West customer service director for the Department for work and Pensions Clare Mcguckin said: “It’s really impressive to see how much Chris loves his job and social care employers can really benefit from employing young people like him.”

ROUTE TO CAREER SUCCESS

Former Royal Manor Arts College pupil Chris first became a social care worker when he volunteered for the youth service aged 18.

He used his own experiences to work with troubled young people and gained useful training and qualifications.

He is now studying towards two NVQ 3 qualifications and is an active member of the Care Ambassador Team, a group which promotes the care industry at schools and Jobcentres.

Chris continues to do youth work and is based at Chickerell Youth Club. Within the next year he plans to put his knowledge and skills to good use doing aid work in Africa.