Humans not Commodities
Care workers do the essential work of caring for vulnerable people in our communities and are vital for our economy but many have been abused or exploited by rogue care companies.
Not only that, but international care workers and their families will be amongst the most affected by the changes to the settlement pathway the Government is proposing, including increasing the settlement pathway for care workers already in the country from 5 to 15 years.
There are 130,000 vacancies in the care sector at the same time that the number of care workers who have lost their job when their employer’s certificate to sponsor has been revoked hits 40,000. Many of these workers are struggling to survive, unable to access benefits and relying on food banks. Some have been without work for up to two years and all are desperate to work.
We want all care workers to have access to decent jobs with responsible employers and a fair pathway to settlement.
We are calling for:
1. Reform of the Sponsorship System
- A portable visa or transferable sponsorship model within the social care sector
- Clear, accessible information for those facing licence expiry or revocation
- National guidance on certificate of sponsorship misuse, reselling, and enforcement
- Expedite re-employment for displaced care workers who have proven their value
2. Stronger Employer Accountability
- Penalise rogue providers and reward ethical ones
- Encourage care providers to accredit as Real Living Wage employers
- Enforce ethical standards by regulating recruitment costs and in-country certificate of sponsorship misuse
3. Better Safeguarding and Crisis Support for Displaced Workers
- Creation and funding of a nationally coordinated safeguarding pathway led by the Home Office, DHSC, and Local Authorities
- Funding for mental health support, immigration advice and skills development
It is important to say this clearly: carers need care too. Too often, we are the ones caring for everyone else while no one cares for us. We pour from our cups until they are empty, expected to continue without pause, without asking – who is supporting the carer?
For many carers, the emotional toll is compounded by long hours, staff shortages, and limited recognition. There are times when carers feel invisible, unheard and undervalued. Yet they continue to show up. They continue to care.
Quotes from Bolanle Akinpelu, a Tresacare Care Worker Ambassador, in her new book Behind Closed Doors.
