Dementia care specialist Belong is launching a new recruitment drive, creating 40 jobs across the North West, including opportunities for people living in the communities of its Macclesfield village.

The Coronavirus pandemic has meant the care sector has had to put additional measures in place like testing and enhanced cleaning meaning care providers are having to expand their teams.

Caroline Ray, general manager at Belong Macclesfield said: "Clearly, we are all learning to adapt to Covid-19 and for Belong, this has brought increased demands, both in caring roles and a range of administrative and housekeeping functions.

"In launching this recruitment drive, we are gearing up for the future and ensuring we continue to provide high quality support to our residents and customers."

Applicants have a number of options to help make a difference to others' lives, the provider said, including roles in care and hospitality at the Kennedy Avenue village and community support worker roles providing home care under the 'Belong at Home' service.

Those who are successful will benefit from dedicated mentors whilst they gain experience and where applicable, qualifications for entry level support workers.

Last year, Belong shortened its application process by increasing its use of technology and digital channels, including carrying out interviews via video calling and accepting identification and DBS documentation via messaging apps. This has "significantly" shortened the recruitment process.

The firm said they have had new colleagues join who have changed careers from the likes of retail and aviation industries.

The launch of the campaign comes after the successful completion of the first doses of Covid-19 vaccinations for Belong staff and residents, last month.

Caroline said: "While there are a number of 'administrative' impacts of Covid-19, our biggest area of focus remains on resident wellbeing, and supporting residents to lead active, fulfilling lives, and maintaining their relationships with family and friends in the wider community.

"Our focus across all recruitment is finding people who share our values and are inspired to make a difference to the lives of older people."

To view the jobs available and apply, visit the Belong website.