The King’s Fund response to the Home Secretary's announcement of a new points-based immigration plan

Commenting on the Home Secretary’s announcement of a new points-based immigration system, and the need for overseas workers in the NHS and social care, Suzie Bailey, Director of Leadership and Organisational Development at The King’s Fund said:

‘While it's positive that the government recognises the need for overseas workers to help plug the significant gaps in the NHS workforce, there is a disappointing lack of consideration given to social care. The NHS workforce is only half the story; with more than 120,000 vacancies in social care, many people are struggling to access the support they need to live independently and avoid long stays in hospital.

‘In the absence of supportive immigration policies, the social care sector would need to significantly improve care worker pay and conditions to attract more home-grown staff. That will require an immediate funding boost, a comprehensive plan for sustainable staffing, and for the Prime Minster to deliver on his commitment to “fix social care once and for all”.’

Notes to editors

Around 1 in 6 staff working in adult social care in England have a non-British nationality (8 per cent of staff are from the European Union and 9 per cent are from the rest of the world).
The average hourly pay for care workers is below the rate paid in most supermarkets.
Details of the policy announcement are available from the Home Office Press Office on 0300 123 3535.

For further information, or to request an interview, please contact the Press and Public Affairs team on 020 7307 2585 (if calling out of hours, please ring 07584 146035).

The King's Fund is an independent charity working to improve health and care in England. We help to shape policy and practice through research and analysis; develop individuals, teams and organisations; promote understanding of the health and social care system; and bring people together to learn, share knowledge and debate. Our vision is that the best possible health and care is available to all.

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