New staff joining the social care workforce in Scotland are to have entry costs paid by the Scottish government until the end of March.
Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) checks and Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) registration will now be funded to help encourage more staff into the profession and address winter staffing pressures.
Basic PVG checks cost £59 while SSSC registration costs between £25 and £80 depending on the role.
The scheme, which is estimated to cost £465,000, will include staff taking up direct care posts in adult social care, along with comparable roles in children’s social care services and the justice sector.
"Care workers have been absolutely critical to our pandemic response, giving vulnerable people the care they need and avoiding further pressure falling on the NHS,” said social care minister Kevin Stewart.
"This trial aims to assist easing winter pressures in this sector by removing any financial barriers that may stop people from applying for a rewarding career in care,” he added.
"There are significant pressures in social care due to high vacancy levels and increased demand. I hope this support will encourage those considering joining this vital workforce to go ahead and do so.
