UK Social Care Unfazed by Visa Dependent Ban
In a surprising turn, Health Secretary Victoria Atkins states that the social care sector is “broadly relaxed” about the recent changes, which will prohibit international care workers from bringing dependents when relocating to the UK.
Sector’s Initial Concerns Contradicted: Contrary to warnings from organizations like Care England, representing care providers nationwide, and NHS Providers expressing deep concerns, Atkins insists the sector comprehends and is relaxed about the alterations.
Government’s Confidence in Maintaining International Interest: Atkins asserts the government’s confidence in maintaining international interest for care workers despite the change in policy.
She cites Minister Whately’s discussions indicating the sector’s understanding and acceptance of the new approach.
Department of Health’s Perspective: Permanent Secretary Sir Chris Wormald, appearing alongside Atkins, emphasizes that the Home Office’s assessment suggests a “robust market.”
He acknowledges the existence of a substantial number of vacancies in the care sector despite international recruitment efforts.
Vacancies and Need for Pay Increase: Committee chairman Steve Brine highlights the 152,000 vacancies in the care sector. Sir Chris acknowledges the persistent issue and acknowledges that international recruitment has helped stabilize the situation.
Limited Consultation and Formal Immigration Process: Sir Chris reveals there was no prior consultation with Care England before announcing the changes, citing the formal process in place for immigration decisions.
However, he believes that the care sector understands the rationale behind the decisions.
Call for Higher Pay for Care Workers: Professor Brian Bell from the Migration Advisory Committee emphasizes that immigration alone is not the solution to workforce problems.
He urges a substantial pay increase for care workers to attract local talent, addressing the underlying causes rather than symptoms.
Concerns About Dependents and Modern Slavery: While there are expectations of a reduction in dependents due to the ban, Professor Bell suggests it might not be as significant as anticipated.
The Migration Advisory Committee reports instances of potential modern slavery related to dependents of migrants on health and care worker visas.
Long-term Solution: The committee underscores that the only sustainable solution to workforce challenges is to pay all care workers properly, requiring a significant increase in public funds.
Thus, the Health Secretary’s assertion of the social care sector’s calm response to the visa changes contrasts with earlier concerns raised by industry stakeholders.
