With a large number of vacancies in Cornwall’s care sector at the moment, one of the county’s hiring experts has given a number of key hints and tips to help people secure the job they are interviewing for.

Jamie Harrison, head of HR from Swallowcourt care homes based across the region, has shared his insider knowledge of the best way to impress when you’re interviewing for a role in the care sector in a new video on Proud to Care Cornwall’s website.

He says that having a look on the organisation’s website before you go and researching the sort of support they provide can give you a real insight into what the role will be about.

He also said: “We want to understand you as an individual, what your values are. We will likely ask questions around safeguarding and experience and that’s personal experience, not just paid experience.”

When it comes to the sorts of qualities they are looking for in a person he said: “Its summed up in two words, kindness and compassion. Experience you will gain.

“Understanding of how and what you will do on a day-to-day basis can be taught. It’s coming in with the right mindset. Showing a keen interest in the residents is the utmost that we are looking for.”

Cllr Andy Virr, Cornwall Council lead cabinet member for adult social care and health said: “It’s great to have insider knowledge of what people in the care sector are looking for when it comes to interviewing for a role.

“It can often be quite nerve wracking when you don’t know what to expect or how to prepare.

“This advice is giving people the right tools they need in order to secure a new role in Cornwall’s care sector, one that is truly rewarding and supports Cornwall’s most vulnerable residents.”

• To watch the full video or see what roles are currently available visit www.proudtocarecornwall.org.uk