Finally, training to build UK care workers' skills, but no money to pay for it | Justine Cawley

Finally, training to build UK care workers' skills, but no money to pay for it | Justine Cawley

The UK's ageing population will need 1 million care workers, so effective professional development and the funding to deliver it must start now

Tomorrow sees the Kingsmill review publish its report into working conditions in the care sector. Like last month's Panorama investigation of abuse of older people in care homes, it will highlight the urgent need for well-trained, professional and compassionate social care staff. Older people's care needs are diverse and increasingly complex, ranging from acute and chronic illness to dementia and palliative care, in addition to mobility issues and mental health problems.

But the specialist knowledge, behaviours and skills required in social care remain seriously underdeveloped. Care-home staff are the forgotten workforce and are often considered to be the lowest of the low by their counterparts in the NHS. As today's residential homes have replaced NHS long-stay hospitals, it's essential that staff have the range of knowledge, skills and practice to cope. The Guardian

Continue reading...