New adult social care workforce strategy backed by Manchester Met research

A new adult social care workforce strategy setting out ambitious plans to recruit, develop and retain care workers has been backed by Manchester Met research. 

Published by Cornwall Council, and one of the first of its kind in England, the strategy outlines actions that will help employers to improve training, career pathways and offer support for wellbeing that will attract more people to work in the care sector. 

To inform Cornwall Council’s new strategy, Manchester Met researchers analysed the contribution of adult social care to Cornwall’s economy, as well as the current position of the region’s workforce.  

The research also included a rapid evidence review together with scenario planning of future workforce demands in the local authority, which is included in a report. 

Carol Atkinson, Professor of Human Resource Management at Manchester Met, said: “It is fantastic to see the publication of this new strategy. And the supporting research report can serve as a blueprint for local authorities across the country to develop their strategies. 

“Our research will help to create good work that will attract workers and retain them in the adult social care sector.” 

First local authority strategy  

Cornwall Council’s strategy was published ahead of a national skills workforce strategy, which was launched on July 18 and led by Skills for Care, the workforce development body for adult social care in England.  

Building on Manchester Met’s research, Cornwall Council has identified strategic priorities to help deliver on their strategy, which include:  

• recruitment to address labour shortages and the required workforce growth  

• training, qualifications and career progression to ensure a skilled workforce  

• improving retention rates, offering secure employment and worker recognition  

• promoting health and well-being and equality which is central to building an effective workforce 

Councillor Andy Virr, Cornwall Council cabinet member for adult social care and health, said: “We recognise the significant pressures faced by those delivering care services in Cornwall and the necessity to change the model of care to meet current and future needs.”  

“This strategy outlines the ways we will support people to experience good work and deliver excellent social care, giving the right people the right skills in the right place. The workforce should be valued for their contribution within the wider health and care sector.”