Around 390,000 adult social care staff left their jobs last year – with about a third of them leaving the sector altogether, according to the strategic workforce development and planning body in England.
Skills for Care’s annual report shows a year of ‘green shoots’ and ongoing challenges as adult social care continues to struggle to recruit and retain adequate numbers of staff.
The report identifies factors that are key to retaining staff, including: being paid more than the minimum wage; not being on a zero-hours contract; being able to work full-time; being able to access training; and having a relevant qualification.
Cllr David Fothergill, Chairman of the LGA’s Community Wellbeing Board, said: “While this important annual research shows some positive progress, it also makes clear that there remains much to do to secure adequate numbers of staff across social care.
“It crucially highlights the factors that enhance staff retention, many of which the LGA has requested government support for, and which many councils are acting on in their work with providers, in order to build and maintain a sustainable workforce.
“A dedicated plan to promote, protect, support and develop careers in social care, alongside parity of pay and terms and conditions with the NHS for comparable roles, both strengthen the wellbeing and recognition of those who work in this essential vocation, and benefit the people who draw on care.”