UK Government sets out plans to develop the domestic care workforce | BASW England Response

The plan aims “to improve the career prospects of the domestic care workforce through training, qualifications and a clearer, care career path.” Read the full press statement.

BASW England notes the government's recognition of the importance of digital skills in social care through the introduction of a new digital leadership qualification. In an era where technology has begun to play a significant role in social and healthcare delivery, we hope that this qualification will be made available to equip all leaders and managers with the necessary capabilities to implement technological advancements effectively.

Commenting on the announcement, Co-chairs of the BASW England Adult Social Work Group, Margaret Young and Jackie Mahoney said:

“We welcome the announcement and introduction of a national care career structure: the Care Workforce Pathway for adult social care, the proposals for funding social work apprenticeships, and the recognition that additional funds will be needed by local authorities to support this. 

“However, we call for the government to go even further to support the sector by investing in and publishing a National Strategy specifically for the social work workforce, with parity of pay across the integrated sector.

"The implementation of the national career structure is non mandatory and may result in national variation, it will be important to evaluate the implementation of the roll out and impact of the Care Workforce Pathway.” 

BASW England will continue to monitor any progress and implementation around these proposals and update members accordingly.