Care boss highlights attributes of good carers

A GOOD carer does a lot more than just help people wash, dress and go to the toilet, according to a domiciliary care boss.

“It’s their interpersonal skills, warmth and personality that really does seal the deal,” said Ben Ruddle, of Home Instead.

Mr Ruddle manages 92 staff who visit and tend to 138 private clients in Swansea and Neath Port Talbot.

He said his carers are paid for travel time between calls, received petrol and vehicle wear and tear costs, and holiday pay.

From April 2020 all home carers in the country will have to be registered with representative care body, Social Care Wales.

“They are trying to professionalise the sector, which is hugely welcome by us,” said Mr Ruddle.

He said he invested a lot in staff training and tried to ensure carers felt valued.

There was a fair bit of churn among the workforce, he said, but three carers have been with the company for 10 years

Mr Ruddle is a Home Instead franchise owner – but the company is not one of those commissioned by Swansea Council.