Our response to ‘The State of the Adult Social Care Sector’ report

In response to Skills for Care’s ‘The State of the Adult Social Care Sector and Workforce in England’ report, Teresa Exelby, Chief People & Corporate Services Officer, said: 

“Skills for Care’s latest report shows both the enormous contribution of social care and why we urgently need to better recognise and reward the people who work in it. Falling vacancies are welcome, but with 96,000 posts still unfilled, and care workers in the independent sector earning just 39p above the National Living Wage, there is clearly much more to do.” 

“This is highly skilled work, carried out by people who make an extraordinary difference to others’ lives. Better pay, secure hours, training and genuine career opportunities are essential if we’re going to keep talented people in social care and attract the next generation.” 

“And behind all of these workforce figures is what makes social care possible for people. Great support enables people to have choice, build relationships, find work and pursue the opportunities that matter to them. It was really encouraging to hear the Social Care Minister recognise the vital role social care plays in supporting working-age disabled adults, broadening the conversation beyond an ageing population and its impact on the NHS.” 

“The National Care Service, Career Workforce Pathway and Fair Pay Agreement offer a real opportunity to build on this.  But they need sustainable investment behind them, reflecting the value of social care to our society and economy, and ensuring the people working in it get the recognition and reward they deserve.”