Social care: new workforce strategy launched

For the first time ever, the adult social care sector, led by Skills for Care, has come together to develop the Workforce Strategy it needs. Adult social care needs a workforce strategy to ensure we have enough of the right people with the right skills to provide the best possible care and support for the people who rely on it.

The Workforce Strategy has been developed by Skills for Care in collaboration with the adult social care sector, including people who draw on care and support. 

Referencing the latest Healthwatch research on unmet need, the Strategy recognises the need for change in the short and long-term. Recommendations are provided on training, attracting and retaining staff, improving pay and terms and conditions, and the need for a legislated workforce plan for social care.

Responding to the strategy Louise Ansari, Chief Executive at Healthwatch England said: 

“With as many as 1.5 million disabled people potentially eligible for social care, it’s essential we retain and train more staff. This is why this workforce strategy will bring a huge boost to people working in social care and those who benefit from care and support.

“The cycle of high turnover and vacancy rates cannot go on. It has put pressure on staff, putting the delivery of truly personalised care at risk when people cannot build relationships with their care workers. 

“Our new research this week shows how transformational social care can be, with almost eight in ten disabled people agreeing that care helps them live the lives they want to live. It’s vital that the important work of carers is recognised and that more people are attracted to a career in social care to address current backlogs and future demand.

“We fully support the recommendations and implementation of the Workforce Strategy, and look forward to working with Skills for Care and others to push forward this key reform.”