A WOMAN who came out of early retirement to dedicate her life to being a carer is one of Prince Charles’ Missing Millions.
Janet Appleyard, who works for Home Instead Senior Care in Bromsgrove and Redditch, is one of the 1.5million over 50s who have had to leave work involuntarily over the last eight years.
Research by the Prince’s Initiative for Mature Enterprise has revealed 1.1million people over 50 are out of work but still want a job .
According to the new statistics Janet, 57, is one of the hidden gems – part of an untapped reserve of people who have an abundance of skills to offer the working world.
The mother-of-four worked as an office manager for many years until she moved to France with her husband and children after taking early retirement.
While living abroad, her father who lived in the UK became very ill and was supported by in-home caregivers.
Janet’s family could not have cared for him on their own and she quickly learnt how important quality care giving was to both those receiving it and their families.
When Janet and her family moved back to the UK she sought out a position with Home Instead as she felt inspired by the care and support her father had received.
As a caregiver Janet visits her elderly clients regularly and helps them with their shopping, cooking and other daily routines allowing them to live independently in their own homes for as long as possible.
She also provides them with the companionship elderly people so often need.
“I have very good relationships with my clients – it is really positive for me and for them.” she said.
“ I love working for Home Instead and I believe we are making a difference to the lives of the families we work with.”
Annie Dixon-Dunn, owner of Home Instead, said they had long believed the over 50s offered a largely untapped and highly effective care resource.
She added they matched their caregivers to clients closer to their own age.
“They have the life skills to understand the issues faced by those in need of care – it’s why we already employ many people who are over 50.
“The role is part-time so is ideal for anyone looking to do a few hours to a few days’ work each week.”
Annie said they always looked for caring and compassionate people to join their team and offered unique, specialised training for the right people, especially those with experience of caring for loved ones.
Visit homeinstead.co.uk/redditchandbromsgrove for more.
