A HOME care business is creating around 50 jobs and launching a live-in service after seeing a surge in demand.

Home Instead Senior Care Southampton is looking to hire around 20 live-in caregivers and 30 regular carers.

It says demand for all its services has spiked during the coronavirus crisis.

Greg Harrold, co-owner of Home Instead Southampton, said: “Many people have been looking for an alternative to care homes for their loved ones throughout the pandemic.

“Our live-in care service offers just that.

“It allows people to stay in the comfort of their own home, around their familiar surroundings, all whilst receiving care from our specialist-trained caregivers.

“With many sectors facing turbulence and uncertainty, including hospitality, aviation and retail, we know this is a challenging time for the job market.

“A career in the care sector could be the next chapter for many, especially if they see the appeal in making a real difference to older people’s lives,” he added.

Live-in caregivers move into the client’s home to give them the support they need and act as a trusted companion. When not working their agreed hours, they are able to rest, sleep and enjoy regular activities.

Home Instead Senior Care Southampton specialises in care for the elderly in and around the city, enabling people to continue living in their own homes. It is a local franchise of the national Home Instead Senior Care business.

It also supports people with sensory and physical impairment and is registered by the Quality Care Commission to provide personal care. A number of its clients are living with dementia or Alzheimer’s.

Home Instead Southampton recently received an “outstanding” rating from the Care Quality Commission in the “caring” category and a “good” rating overall.

The inspector reported at the time: “Everyone we spoke with was consistently positive about the caring attitude of staff and described the trusting relationships they had built.”

The business is run by father-and-son team Mike and Greg Harrold, who joined in late 2019, taking over from the founding owners.