Addressing the Social Care Challenge: Insights from the Roundtable

In early February 2025, leaders from the social care sector gathered to tackle some of the industry’s most pressing challenges. Employers, support organizations, and training providers discussed workforce development, funding, and the evolving role of technology. A key concern emerged: while resources and support exist, they are not always reaching those who need them most.

Funding, Workforce Challenges and Careers Awareness

One pressing topic was the availability and use of funding for adult training. The Workforce Development Fund, provided by the Department of Health and Social Care through Skills for Care, offers vital financial support. However, participants raised concerns about its sustainability, particularly for smaller employers. Alarmingly, much of the available funding remains underutilised. The group discussed ways to raise awareness and ensure all care providers can consistently access these resources.

Recruiting and retaining talent remains a major challenge. Employers highlighted the difficulty in attracting domestic candidates compared to international hires, which carry additional sponsorship costs. Negative perceptions of the industry—low pay and limited career progression—exacerbate these difficulties.

To combat these issues, participants suggested increasing visibility around career pathways and promoting the sector’s positives: job flexibility, security, and growth opportunities. One proposal was to survey students’ perceptions of social care to develop targeted outreach strategies. The need for positive case studies and role models to reshape public opinion was also emphasised.

Participants stressed the importance of introducing social care careers earlier, particularly in schools. Employers were encouraged to rethink their approach to career fairs, making them more interactive and engaging to capture students’ attention and foster meaningful conversations.

Technology’s Role, Tackling Onboarding and Expanding the Talent Pool

As digital innovation accelerates, its impact on social care cannot be overlooked. The roundtable discussed the opportunities and uncertainties surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) and digital planning tools. While these technologies offer operational benefits, their long-term effects on care delivery and workforce needs require further exploration. There was also interest in learning from successful initiatives in other regions, such as Kent.

Employers raised concerns about the practical challenges of onboarding new recruits, particularly school and college students. Instances of candidates missing interviews or displaying unprofessional behaviour present barriers to a smooth recruitment process. Participants acknowledged these issues extend beyond social care and may require cross-industry collaboration.

The group also highlighted the value of encouraging more adults to transition into social care roles. Career changers and individuals with lived experiences offer valuable skills and insights. Programs like “Connect to Work” were cited as key resources for identifying and supporting potential employees.

Addressing Gender Imbalance and Training and Policy Concerns

With 84% of the social care workforce being female, participants urged employers to explore ways to attract a more diverse range of candidates. By promoting the sector as inclusive and rewarding, care organizations can work toward a more balanced workforce.

Concerns were also raised about upcoming changes to the apprenticeship levy and the limitations of existing training frameworks like T Levels and Skills Bootcamps, which do not adequately address social care’s specific needs. Advocacy efforts may be necessary to push for more tailored training solutions.

Another concern was the high cost of “train the trainer” programs, essential for maintaining quality standards but financially burdensome for many providers. Leveraging partnerships with local colleges for cost-effective solutions was proposed.

The Social Care Roundtable underscored the urgent need for collaboration to address the sector’s challenges. Shifting public perceptions, improving training access, and embracing technological advancements are essential steps toward building a resilient and thriving social care workforce. The message was clear: no single organization can solve these issues alone. By fostering cross-sector partnerships and promoting positive narratives, the social care community can drive meaningful change and secure a sustainable future.