Social Care Staff Numbers and Vacancy Rates 2021-11-23
2021-11-23
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Questions & Answers
Q1
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The social care sector is experiencing significant challenges with staff recruitment and retention, leading to critical shortages.
What steps he is taking to tackle staff shortages in the social care sector?
We recognise the challenges and have put in place measures such as a £162.5 million workforce recruitment and retention fund and a national recruitment campaign highlighting the rewarding nature of work in adult social care, launched on 3 November.
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Q2
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The social care sector's vacancy rate for carers has worsened compared to pre-pandemic levels, and the situation is expected to deteriorate further due to compulsory vaccination requirements.
When does my hon. Friend believe the vacancy rate will return to pre-pandemic levels?
The vaccine saves lives, and 92.5% of care home staff have had their second dose as of 14 November. The Department closely monitors workforce capacity data and local intelligence. Longer term, at least £500 million is committed to support and develop the workforce.
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Q3
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There are currently 105,000 vacancies across all social care workforce grades. While senior care workers have been added to the shortage occupation list, the Migration Advisory Committee is not due to report until next April.
When will the Government admit that they need to add all grades of social care workers to the shortage occupation list?
We have sent out £162.5 million for workforce recruitment and retention, including Sefton receiving £1,032,474. Adult social care providers can recruit key adult social carers from overseas at reduced fees.
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Q4
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The adult social care sector is facing severe staff shortages, with one-third of managers limiting or stopping admissions from hospital due to lack of staff.
Will the Minister commit to paying a retention bonus and a fully funded permanent pay increase?
We are committed to bringing forth new measures in the White Paper, spending £500 million on recruiting the workforce, and addressing discharge processes. We have also set out money to help with short-term impacts of demographic growth.
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Q5
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Surrey faces specific challenges with an ageing demographic, high housing costs, and a general high cost of living.
Could I urge the Minister and the Secretary of State to ensure that they consider all possible avenues to assist?
Surrey will receive £2,704,702. We have started the biggest national recruitment campaign ever done, Made with Care, to thank our care workers and show it as a rewarding career.
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Q6
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The Alternative Futures Group operates in the north-west and refuses to take up the real living wage even when councils offer funding, leading to deteriorating terms and conditions.
Is there a need to look at that group?
Yes, I would be grateful if the hon. Gentleman could write with details. We have skills shortages in many areas and employers who do not treat their staff well will face acute shortages due to our Plan for Jobs.
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