Social care workforce still under strain

“A chronically-underfunded social care system not only adds pressure to other public services, but, more importantly, has a profound impact on people who draw on care, resulting in widespread unmet need.”

This comment, from Councillor David Fothergill, chairman of the Local Government Association’s Community Wellbeing Board, comes after the publication of the Skills for Care data, which showed that social care workforce vacancy rates have now returned to pre-COVID levels.

The findings showed that the vacancy rate for 2024/25 fell to 7%. This was a return to similar levels seen prior to 2021/22, when the rate had peaked at 10.5%. 

The total number of vacant posts in 2024/25 was 111,000, which was a 12.4% decrease on the previous year.

The number of filled posts grew by 3.4% to 1.6 million, smaller growth than the previous year, but still the second highest increase on record.

The report also showed the turnover rate in the independent sector decreased from 25.8% in 2023/24, to 24.7% in 2024/25.

Fothergill said: “The adult social care workforce plays an essential role in supporting people of all ages to live full, independent lives.

“These latest figures shine a spotlight on the severe long-term recruitment and retention challenges facing the adult social care workforce. 

“Despite a promising fall in the vacancy rate, the workforce continues to be overstretched and underfunded.

“We continue to call for higher pay for our dedicated social care staff, supported by a long-term workforce strategy and sustainable investment for the sector.

“Addressing these challenges must be a central priority for the Casey Commission. This includes delivering a fully-funded Fair Pay Agreement, alongside a focus on training, development, and career progression, and recognition of local government’s crucial role in the Adult Social Care Negotiating Body.”