Responding to Social Care Wales’ survey of the registered workforce in Wales, Councillor Huw David OBE (Bridgend), WLGA Spokesperson for Health and Social Care said:

“Social care workers undertake incredible work every day enabling all those who draw on care and support to live a fulfilling life. The fact that social care workers feel valued by the people and families they support is testament to the dedication and commitment that the workforce continues to demonstrate.”

“However, the survey adds further evidence to the need to address the workforce challenges facing us with urgency. The fact that many still reflect that they feel undervalued by the public and underpaid for the work they do remains a cause for concern. We need a workforce who are truly valued, have parity of esteem with NHS workers and are appropriately rewarded for the invaluable work they do. It is essential that we prioritise and invest in our social care workforce, failing to do so will have severe consequences for the future delivery of our essential social care services which play such an important part in many people’s lives.”

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“Investment is welcome, but local government in Wales is extremely concerned to hear about the impact on jobs of the news today about TATA.

“Any job losses on this scale would be body blow to thousands of families, and the wider shockwaves would be keenly felt in the economy and communities.”

“Clarity and support are urgently needed for the workers at this incredibly worrying time.”

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“Teachers play an integral role in our communities in educating, supporting, and nurturing our young people. It is vital that any pay award is balanced between rewarding teachers’ hard work and affordability. Council budgets are already under severe pressure due to rocketing inflation and soaring energy bills.

“Local government is committed to working closely in social partnership with the Welsh Government and the unions to resolve this dispute, and to minimise disruption to education provision.” 

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