BASW England responds to report on state of the adult social care workforce

Skills for Care have published new findings on the state of the adult social care sector and workforce in England.

In the most recent report from Skills for Care on the adult social care workforce for 2022-23, there are some positive messages amid persisting challenges. The decrease in the vacancy rate from 10.6% to 9.9% in the year leading to March 2023 is, indicating progress with recruitment and retention . However, it is crucial to exercise caution, given the ongoing exodus of professionals from the field, despite the sector's growth by 20,000 individuals.

It's notable that even with this growth, the sector has not fully recovered from the loss of 50,000 workers observed in 2021-22. This decline since 2021 underscores the necessity for the government to focus not only on recruitment efforts but also on retaining existing talent. This must include the infrastructure to support overseas workers with training and mentoring alongside affordable housing, well-being, and family support.

The cost-of-living crisis also impacts those in the workforce heavily and Government should consider its response to this too, particularly with social worker wage growth lagging behind the rest of the public sector since austerity policies were first introduced.

Without addressing retention issues, including parity of pay, terms and conditions across health and social care , recruitment initiatives risk jeopardising the long-term stability of England's social care system and its workforce.

BASW England has consistently emphasised the need for a comprehensive review of pay, terms, and working conditions. Additionally, they advocate for a national recruitment campaign to bolster the social work and care  workforce, a vital component of the sector. It is imperative that the government heeds these calls and recognises the urgency for investment and support at this critical juncture.

With a general election looming in the coming year, BASW England urges political leaders to prioritise addressing the ongoing crisis in adult social care. We emphasise the importance of a funding settlement that can effectively meet the challenge of providing first class care to working age adults and our ageing population. This proactive approach is essential to ensure the well-being and dignity of the individuals who depend on the social care system.

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A full copy of the report can be accessed here