An event aiming to tackle a social care "ticking time bomb" has been organised.
Sutton Council has organised a social care recruitment fair with the aim of filling the growing number of vacancies in the sector, which is plagued by a high turnover in staff.
In the last 30 days, 200 social care job vacancies have been advertised in Sutton, contributing to 2,700 advertised across the capital.
In an effort to change the situation, which has been worsening, the event will give care providers the chance to talk to prospective workers about the demands of the industry and the opportunities available to people.
People will also be able to apply for and even be interviewed for jobs at the event - meaning there is a chance that someone could walk away from the fair with a new career.
Councillor Jayne McCoy, chairwoman of the council's housing economy and business committee, said: "The lack of people entering the social care profession is a ticking time bomb.
Councillor Jayne McCoy
"There are huge numbers of vacancies, but businesses tell us that people are either unskilled or unwilling to enter the profession.
"We are committed to boosting local employment and the aim of this event is to show people how rewarding this work can be, and show them the range of training courses and apprenticeships available to set them on track for a career in social care.
"We are looking for passionate and enthusiastic individuals who are committed to providing the highest quality care to patients, and who, through fulfilling employment, will help us continue to build a prosperous borough."
Among the organisations taking part will be Sutton Jobcentre Plus. Spokeswoman Janine Loft said: "Sutton Jobcentre Plus is really pleased to be working alongside Sutton Council to promote working in the care sector.
"It’s a sector with a very high number of jobs and entry into it can develop into a worthwhile and fulfilling career."
Carshalton and Wallington MP Tom Brake will open the event, which takes place at Sutton Civic Centre in St Nicholas Way from 1pm to 4pm on Friday, March 21.
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