Database makes it easier to find carers
A new online service connecting people who need in-home care with carers who are available to work was launched in Sydney last week.
Careseekers focuses on aged, disability and post-operative care and was created by two sisters after watching their families struggle to find care for their ageing grandparents.
“Our grandparents were adamant about staying at home, but finding the right care for them was challenging. Agency care was prohibitively expensive and government care had long waiting lists and was inflexible. It was only through word of mouth and a bit of luck that we found the right carers.”
“We’ve created Careseekers because luck should not be the determining factor in finding in-home care. The site allows care seekers and carers to connect and create a working arrangement that suits both parties. It’s an affordable way to stay at home,” comments Marissa Sandler, co- founder and CEO.
Lauren Hockley, co-founder explains the concept. “The site is very simple to use. People looking for carers pay a one off fee to search for carers, post a job and contact carers. The carers all have detailed profiles and are rated and reviewed by other people who have used their services.”
Careseekers has hundreds of carers on their site who are looking for work. Marina from Glebe was looking for a carer to support her family in caring for her mother, who has early signs of dementia.
“Careseekers is a great service. I was able to connect to a local carer who has dementia experience. She's really attuned to mum's needs so there's a good chance a healthy relationship will develop pretty quickly.“
The site has launched in time for the new model of government funded Consumer Directed Care Packages on July 1st where the recipient will have much more choice about how their care is delivered. They will be able to be actively involved in making decisions about the type of care they receive and how their funds are used.
Careseekers was recently selected as a participant in the National Roads and Motorists Association (NRMA) inaugural Jumpstart program. The NRMA Jumpstart program provided Careseekers with direction, training and advice to grow the business. They were one of six start-ups chosen from over 200 applicants.
The site launched in Sydney last week and aims to be operating throughout Australia within 12 months.
To find out more visit www.careseekers.com.au or call 1300 765 465.
