CCPS statement on the reopening of the Adult Social Care Displaced Workers Scheme

CCPS welcomes the Scottish Government’s commitment to investing in the recruitment of additional social care workers through the reopening of the Adult Social Care Displaced Workers Scheme; however, more must be done to tackle the sector’s recruitment and retention challenges.

Although we welcome the Scottish Government’s commitment to deliver up to 45,000 extra hours of care every month, we believe this is a short-term solution. The UK Government must make much needed changes on international recruitment. In addition, the Scottish Government must take urgent action on fair work and pay in the sector.

We are dismayed by recent changes to UK immigration policy which have had a significant and negative impact on recruitment in social care. This policy approach does not reflect the practical realities of recruitment in the sector, which relies upon the commitment and compassion of international workers alongside – and not as an alternative to – workers already living and working in Scotland.

A recent CCPS report highlighted that international recruits have reduced turnover and contributed significantly to frontline, specialist and leadership roles. Despite sustained recruitment campaigns, applicant numbers for social care roles remain low, with recruitment particularly challenging in remote and rural areas. Migrant workers are an established and important part of the social care workforce, including those who have already made their homes in Scotland. Supporting workers affected by displacement to remain in employment is therefore important to sustaining the workforce and the services they provide.

Alongside this, the recruitment and retention challenges facing the sector can be attributed in large part to a lack of fair work and pay. We therefore urge the Scottish Government to move forward with its commitment to sectoral bargaining and recognise the importance of fair work and pay to make social care a sustainable career choice.