More than half of care workers have considered leaving the sector in the past year, according to new research from qualifications organisation NCFE, which found concerns over pay, working conditions and career progression continue to weigh on workforce retention.
The report, Staying, leaving, or progressing? A snapshot of the social care workforce, surveyed more than 100 current and former care workers. It found that more than half (53 per cent) of current care workers had considered changing careers, while a quarter (25 per cent) said they were actively looking to leave the sector.
The findings also point to concerns around progression, with 45 per cent of respondents either disagreeing or unsure that clear career pathways exist in adult social care. More than eight in ten (81 per cent) said regulated qualifications would be the factor most likely to support their career development.
The report is based on responses from 107 current and former social care workers across the UK who completed an online survey through the charity's alumni network, which it said were sourced from a range of care settings and roles, with findings combining survey data and qualitative comments from respondents.
NCFE head of policy and strategy Michael Lemin said: “We hear a lot about the recruitment and retention challenges in the social care sector, but not enough from those on the frontline. That's why we decided to directly explore how those working in a range of different roles are feeling when it comes to career progression opportunities, professional development, and whether they see a long-term future in care.”
He added: “While pay and working conditions continue to underpin much of the dissatisfaction within the sector, a significant number of care workers also pointed to a lack of career progression opportunities.”
Retention pressures remain
The findings come amid ongoing recruitment and retention challenges across adult social care, with Skills for Care continuing to report significant vacancy levels and staff turnover across the workforce.
The NCFE research found respondents who had left the sector frequently blamed pay not matching the responsibility of care roles, as well as burnout, mental health pressures and a lack of recognition for the profession as reasons behind their decision.
One current care worker told researchers: “I'm actively looking for another position as staffing is bad. The staff morale is bad. Staff are blamed for everything. As carers, we get hit, thumped, kicked, spat at and get racially abused. For minimum wage.”
Despite these pressures, many respondents remained positive about care work, with more than half saying they would recommend the profession because of the opportunity to make a meaningful difference to people's lives.
Lemin said the findings showed “a clear appetite for education and development” and highlighted the need for a system that supports career progression while helping care workers feel valued and recognised throughout their careers.
