2024-01-12 11:27:08

The Care Workforce Pathway is one step in the right direction, but only one, says Hft


Learning disability charity Hft has responded to the Government’s plans to develop the domestic care workforce in the UK, saying it is one step in the right direction but further action must follow.

Steve Veevers, CEO of Hft, says:

“It’s certainly refreshing to see that the Government is taking steps to invest in our invaluable adult social care workforce and the 1.52 million dedicated staff our sector employs.

“As evidence from our Sector Pulse Check research, written in partnership with Care England, illustrates, career development opportunities can have a direct impact on recruitment and retention. The Government’s package of support is therefore a move in the right direction and I’m keen to see what impact the new Care Workforce Pathway has on our sector.

“However, the Government cannot rest on its laurels. It has previously left expectations unfulfilled and, just last year, halved vital funding for the development of our workforce. Now, the importance of significantly reducing the vacancy rate across adult social care is higher than ever; it cannot be underestimated. This is just a start.

“We must see further action on this, from the current Government and the next.”

Notes to editors

For further information please email media.enquiries@hft.org.uk

About Hft

Proudly established in 1962 by a group of visionary parents, Hft is a charity supporting more than 2,500 learning disabled adults in England and Wales. Together, we are creating a future where learning disabled people and their families can live the best life possible.

Providing personalised support. Creating solutions for living independently. Coming together to campaign for positive change. Fundraising for new opportunities and a bigger impact.

In 2033, we’ll live in a world where learning disabled people have greater choice. About where they live. The support they need and want. And how to spend their time and money.

 

Learning disability versus difficulty

 

A learning disability is different from a learning difficulty but the terms are often confused and used inter-changeably. A learning difficulty does not affect general intellect, whereas a learning disability is a life-long condition characterised by a reduced intellectual ability and struggle with everyday activities.

For more information about Hft please visit www.hft.org.uk