The social care sector is often overlooked as a career option by many, simply because it's misunderstood.

There seems to be a stereotypical view that social care comes with long hours, poor working conditions and at best pays minimum wage. This is not the case.

Nick Lamming, franchise owner at Home Instead South Cheshire, is keen to address what he describes as a "common misrepresentation" of working in the home care sector.

Having started his career in care by working in his family's own Home Instead franchise in Wirral, Nick worked his way up from being a part-time cleaner whilst at university, before moving into a CAREGiver role, finally after being promoted through various operational roles, he became general manager.

Having spent more than a decade working in the sector, Nick understands the value of CAREGivers (or care workers as many refer to those working in the role) and he appreciates the vital part they play in supporting our society.

Mr Lamming said: "I came into this business because I know the real-world value social care holds for our ageing population, and I wanted to contribute to changing peoples' lives in a positive way.

"It is easy to say we want to make a difference, but honestly this is engrained in our DNA.

"The Home Instead philosophy is to help ageing adults live independently in their own homes for longer. I believe this is what most of us would hope for.

"I know this certainly holds true for me and my own family."

To deliver the highest quality of care, at any kind of scale, requires having a team of the right people.

It may surprise you to know that CAREGivers come from a diverse range of careers from ex-marines and service personnel, to customer service representatives, airline and hospitality workers, to former nurses and teachers.

They all share a common thread, which is that they all have compassion and a kind nature. After that caring isn't really working as many of them will say.

Mr Lamming continues: "We have a fantastic care team at the moment, but as demand for our care services rises, we need more likeminded and kind-hearted people to join us.

"This is also true for the sector more generally of course, but I can specifically relate to my own company.

"Having worked in a family franchise for over a decade, I really want to carry on the family business so to speak, by delivering the best in home care across South Cheshire.

"It makes me proud to be in a position where I am now looking to create 50 new CAREGiver roles across all areas in South Cheshire."

Mr Lamming concludes: "Alsager is a key area for us, and we are looking for good local people to join us.

"Over the years I have learned that lots of people would like to consider the role, but think they need previous experience or an existing qualification, which they don't.

"Of course, if they already work in domiciliary care that may help, but it's not necessary as we provide award winning training including City & Guilds and NVQ level."

What would Nick say to anyone thinking of giving CAREGiving it a try? Just that!

If you are interested in a career in care and want to give it a try, then visit their website or call 01270 611555 to find out more.