Bradford Adult Social Care Recruitment Unit has been launched

A “much-needed” recruitment drive for adult social workers has been launched in Bradford due to a growing list of vacancies in the borough.

There are 1,100 vacant roles in Bradford and Craven that involve working with adults who need support for various conditions, according to the Bradford Care Association.

An estimated 3,579 extra care professionals will be needed locally over the next 10 years to meet demand, Bradford Council has said.

The campaign will be promoted through social media, digital and print signage around the city and in community gathering spaces.

Peter Hopkinson, managing director of a Leeds-based care provider, recently said social care must be made a priority by the next government to avoid a “national catastrophe”.

Bradford Council said the campaign highlighted the “crucial” role social care workers play.

Jobs range from providing companionship, supporting care home residents and helping the disabled, with many advertised roles paying between £11 and £12 an hour.

Irteza Masood, a mental health social worker in the district, said: “Working in the social care sector is challenging but so rewarding.

“It’s important to recruit people who can empathize with the people we work with, who believe in the power of community resources and who are able to have a positive attitude about implementing change.”

Rayhana Begum, managing director of a Bradford care provider, said: “A positive society is collectively made up of people coming together to help each other and this need in Bradford is no different to any other city.

“We hope this campaign will highlight the different roles adult social care has to offer and inspire people to support their communities through a rewarding career.”