STUDENTS at Keighley College have been providing a lifeline to people in the community during the pandemic.

Five students from the Bradford Road campus have been giving support as part of a health and social care work placement.

The quintet has been working part-time with Personalized Care Services – based at New Devonshire House in Devonshire Street, Keighley – taking on the role of complex-care support workers.

Tasks undertaken have included helping people with medication and their dietary needs, dementia care and providing companionship, plus respite for families with care responsibilities.

The ultimate aim is to help individuals live independently in their own homes.

Tribute is paid to the students by Mazar Hussain, managing director of Personalized Care Services.

He said: “Each student has performed exceptionally well in their role, especially during these challenging times.

“The pandemic has had a significant impact on our services.

“We’ve all worked incredibly hard to keep people safe in their homes and ensure that they have their personal care needs met.

“Three students who completed the health and social care Level 3 diploma have continued to work part-time with us.

“It’s incredible to see how well their skills and knowledge have developed and the level of care they are providing is impeccable.”

Student Ghalia Fiaz said the experience had proved invaluable, adding: “This hands-on opportunity has been so important to my learning and development.

“It has not only highlighted the importance of this sector during the pandemic, but also allowed me to help empower individuals by providing them with the confidence to become part of their community.”

Keighley College course leader, Rohima Ali, said: “As a community-focused college we’re dedicated to supporting local people as much as possible.

“It’s inspiring to see how quickly our students have developed admirable qualities and abilities through invaluable character-building real-life experience.”

Personalized Care Services was founded two years ago to support people in the community with their care needs. It offers 24-hour help to individuals who have experienced difficulties settling into a community-based environment in the past.

The 38-strong workforce provides a wide range of services including domestic support, help with mental wellbeing and supported employment.

“We will be working closely with Keighley College to help develop its curriculum – with a focus on employer and community needs,” added Mr Hussain.

For more about health and social care courses at the college, visit keighleycollege.ac.uk.