Commenting on publication today (Wednesday) of Skills for Care’s latest report on pay in the social care sector across England, UNISON head of social care Gavin Edwards said today (Wednesday):
“The rising number of care workers stuck on the minimum wage underlines why a fair pay agreement is needed urgently across a sector neglected for far too long.
“The £500m investment promised by the government falls far short of what’s required to fix the workforce crisis in such a critical public service.
“It’s no wonder good staff are leaving when there’s just 10p separating the pay of new starters and those with five years’ experience.
“The continued exploitation of migrant care workers is unacceptable, as is the failure to pay some domiciliary care staff for their travel time.
“Until fair pay is implemented ministers must tackle these fundamental problems.”
Notes to editors:
– UNISON is the UK’s largest union, with more than 1.3 million members providing public services in education, local government, the NHS, police service and energy. They are employed in the public, voluntary and private sectors.
Media contacts:
Anthony Barnes M: 07834 864794 E: a.barnes@unison.co.uk
Dan Ashley M: 07508 080349 E: d.ashley@unison.co.uk
