The Care Workers' Charity

🎉 Join us for Professional Care Workers’ Week 2024! 🎉
From Sept 16-20, celebrate the incredible work of care workers with virtual panels, discussions, and more. Free and open to all!
🌟 Let’s raise the profile of our care heroes! 🌟 Attend a talk, host an event, or simply show your appreciation.
Get involved and make a difference! www.thecareworkerscharity.org.uk/pcww2024/

Download our Fundraising Pack for ideas.

Our press release in response to the government dropping charging reforms in ASC and cutting DHSC funding for workforce development.

https://www.thecareworkerscharity.org.uk/news/the-care-workers-charity-responds-to-government-statement-on-adult-social-care-workforce/

📢 Approximately 1.5 million people in the UK rely on social care services, including homecare, day care, and residential care. It's essential to continue sharing stories of those we've helped as the struggle persists for in need. Read James's story below ❤️🤗.

James is a domiciliary care worker who has been providing care to older people in their homes for six years. He met his wife at the same company, and they have a two-year-old child.

“Unexpectedly, our son needed an operation and had to stay in a regional hospital 150 miles from home. My wife took unpaid leave during this time.”

Helen stayed with their son in the hospital but had to take unpaid leave.

“A colleague suggested I reach out to see if The Care Workers' Charity could offer us any help.”
James applied online for a General Crisis Grant, submitted the required documents, and was awarded a grant.

“We were incredibly grateful to receive financial support towards our loss of income, which helped with our bills. This assistance allowed us to focus more on our son.”

Their son is now home and has recovered well from his operation. Helen is back at work, and the family is looking forward to returning to their normal life.

“My advice to others is, if you need help, ask. You’ll be surprised at the support available.”

Since 2020, we have awarded £6.2 million in grants. We need your support to assist the many care workers in need. There are 1.6 million care and support workers in the UK, many of whom live below the real living wage, making them vulnerable to financial hardship in times of crisis. Your support enables us to expand our grant programs and strengthen our services so that care workers can receive timely help.

We appreciate your time and effort in fundraising. Your donations are used responsibly and make a huge difference.

Donate here: https://buff.ly/3NaUN7s

📊✨ Data Trends Alert! ✨📊

At The Care Workers' Charity, we are dedicated to supporting our incredible care workers. In the first half of 2024, we've been able to provide significant grants each month, making a real difference in the lives of many. Here's a snapshot of our impact:

January 2024: £40,000
February 2024: £55,000
March 2024: £45,000
April 2024: £45,000
May 2024: £35,000
June 2024: £30,000
Your generosity makes this possible! Let’s keep this momentum going and continue to support our care workers throughout the year. 🌟

Stay tuned for more updates and thank you for making a difference! 🙌❤️

We are delighted to announce we have now partnered with The Giant Cash Bonanza and you can win with ! Sign up today and in return for your £2 weekly membership fee you will be supporting us, plus have the chance to win some fantastic prizes. You have a 1:129 chance of winning - do you fancy giving it a go? Click here to sign up and for more information: https://buff.ly/3VJ9ToT

The Care Workers' Charity is dedicated to advancing the financial, professional, and mental well-being of care workers across the UK. We achieve this through grants, resource guidance, mental health support, and advocacy for fair pay, working conditions and recognition. Through our initiatives, care workers receive crucial assistance during times of need and benefit from ongoing development opportunities and meaningful engagement in shaping the policies that affect their profession.

We have so far helped 12.2 thousand with £6.1 million in grants and support since 2020. Please support us to do more

🎉 Join us for Professional Care Workers’ Week 2024! 🎉
From Sept 16-20, celebrate the incredible work of care workers with virtual panels, discussions, and more. Free and open to all!

🌟 Let’s raise the profile of our care heroes! 🌟 Attend a talk, host an event, or simply show your appreciation.

Get involved and make a difference! www.thecareworkerscharity.org.uk/pcww2024/

Download our Fundraising Pack for ideas.

📢 Approximately 1.5 million people in the UK rely on social care services, including homecare, day care, and residential care. It's essential to continue sharing stories of those we've helped as the struggle persists for in need. Read Mark's story below ❤️🤗.

Mark's life was dramatically changed after he experienced a minor stroke that left him unable to work and support his family. He had been a chef at a care home for over 15 years.
“I love my job. I know everyone there and what they like to eat!”

Without Mark's income, his family struggled to pay their bills. Fortunately, the human resources team at his workplace directed him to The Care Workers' Charity for assistance.

“Only receiving SSP had a significant impact on our income. I was worried we wouldn't be able to pay our bills and might fall into serious debt.”

The Care Workers' Charity quickly processed Mark's crisis grant application, providing a grant to alleviate the family's financial difficulties. This support allowed Mark to focus on his recovery and prepare for a phased return to work, as recommended by his doctor.

“The help my family received from The Care Workers' Charity significantly eased our financial burden, allowing me to concentrate on my recovery. We will always be grateful and I am humbled by their generous assistance. Thank you.”

Since 2020, we have awarded £6.2 million in grants. We need your support to assist the many care workers in need. There are 1.6 million care and support workers in the UK, many of whom live below the real living wage, making them vulnerable to financial hardship in times of crisis. Your support enables us to expand our grant programs and strengthen our services so that care workers can receive timely help.

We appreciate your time and effort in fundraising. Your donations are used responsibly and make a huge difference.

Donate here: https://buff.ly/3NaUN7s

📢 PRESS RELEASE 📢 The Care Workers’ Charity is pleased to announce the appointment of Lisa Delaney as the new Deputy Chair, effective June 2024 🎉

With over 12 years of experience in the care sector, Lisa has held various leadership roles in recruitment, hospitality, and procurement. Currently serving as the UK Country Manager for Sensio, she assists care providers in their digital transformation through the implementation of advanced passive monitoring systems.

Read more here:

The Care Workers’ Charity Announces New Deputy Chair of Trustees - The Care Workers Charity The Care Workers’ Charity is pleased to announce the appointment of Lisa Delaney as the new Deputy Chair, effective June 2024.With over 12 years of experience in the care sector, Lisa has held various leadership roles in recruitment, hospitality, and procurement. Currently serving as the UK Countr...

Have fun to Knight and Bennett who are jumping out of a plan today for our today! Thank you so much for your support

📢 Approximately 1.5 million people in the UK rely on social care services, including homecare, day care, and residential care. It's essential to continue sharing stories of those we've helped as the struggle persists for in need. Read Stephen's story below ❤️🤗.

Stephen, a highly skilled and experienced senior care worker, has dedicated many years to working with older people.

"Working as a care worker is so rewarding. I get a great sense of satisfaction knowing I’m making a difference in their quality of life."

Stephen's thriving career was interrupted by a serious accident. He suffered several injuries, including a shattered ankle, which required extensive surgery and rehabilitation.

"I was cycling to work when I was hit from behind by a car. I was thrown in the air and landed in front of oncoming traffic. I could have died."

Stephen needed two surgeries on his ankle. Unable to work for two months, he faced physical pain and significant financial stress. With only Statutory Sick Pay, he struggled to cover his living expenses and feared falling into debt.

"I wasn’t eating or sleeping much due to the stress. Instead of recuperating, I was just worrying about my financial situation."

Stephen learned about The Care Workers' Charity through his HR department. They awarded him a crisis grant, providing much-needed financial relief and allowing him to focus on recovery without financial worry.

"I am overwhelmed as this wasn’t expected at all. I appreciate their help massively."
Stephen has now returned to the job he enjoys and is back to full health.

Since 2020, we have awarded £6.2 million in grants. We need your support to assist the many care workers in need. There are 1.6 million care and support workers in the UK, many of whom live below the real living wage, making them vulnerable to financial hardship in times of crisis. Your support enables us to expand our grant programs and strengthen our services so that care workers can receive timely help.

We appreciate your time and effort in fundraising. Your donations are used responsibly and make a huge difference.

Donate here: https://buff.ly/3NaUN7s

🌟 Roundtable Series with Care Workers 🌟

Do you want to foster open dialogue and collaboration with care workers on crucial topics like technology integration, care sector policy, and working conditions? We’re here to help!

Why This Matters:
💬 Engagement: Actively engage care workers in meaningful discussions about their profession.
🧠 Insight: Gather firsthand insights on key issues affecting the care sector.
🤝 Collaboration: Foster collaboration between care workers, researchers, and policymakers.
💡 Solutions: Identify practical solutions and innovations to enhance the care sector.

What We Offer:
📋 Recruitment of diverse care workers
🏛️ Organising accessible venues
🚗 Handling travel and accommodation
📝 Session preparation with tailored questions
🎤 Experienced facilitation
📄 Comprehensive documentation (optional)

Proposed Topics:
🔧 Technology in Care
⚖️ Policy and Regulation
🛠️ Working Conditions
📚 Training and Development
🧘 Mental Health and Wellbeing

Join us in creating a platform where care workers' voices can truly be heard and valued. Together, we can drive positive change in the care sector!

📊 Data Trends Alert! 📊

Our grant application numbers for the first half of 2024 highlight the crucial support our care workers need. 🗓️

January: 150+ applications
February: Nearly 200 applications!
March: Around 125 applications
April: Just above 125 applications
May: Consistent at 150+ applications
June: Approximately 75 applications
These numbers show the ongoing demand for assistance among care workers. At The Care Workers' Charity, we are dedicated to providing this much-needed support, but we can't do it alone. Your donations are vital in helping us continue our mission.

🙏 Support our care workers by donating today. Every contribution makes a difference in their lives and the lives of those they care for. Together, we can ensure that care workers receive the help they need. 💪✨

Donate Now: https://www.thecareworkerscharity.org.uk/get-involved/monthly-or-annual-donations/

A huge THANK YOU to Casson Consulting for sponsoring our session on “The Future of AI in Social Care” during Professional Care Workers’ Week! 🌟 Your support is driving innovation in social care!

For more details on visit https://buff.ly/3zS7IqF or scan the QR code.

🌟 Join us for Afternoon Tea for the CWC! 🌟

As part of Professional Care Workers’ Week 2024, we're inviting you to host a delightful Afternoon Tea event on 19 September 2024 to raise funds for The Care Workers’ Charity. 🍰☕️

By participating, you'll be helping to support the incredible work of care workers across the country. Download our fundraising pack for more information and to get started: www.thecareworkerscharity.org.uk/pcww2024

Together, let's make a difference! 💖

🎉 Exciting News! 🎉

The 26th National Care Awards will once again spotlight our amazing fundraisers in 2024! We're thrilled to host The Care Workers’ Charity Top Individual and Organisation Fundraiser Awards for the second year. 🏆

These awards celebrate those who go above and beyond in raising funds for The Care Workers’ Charity. Nominations are now open and will close at midnight on Thursday, 31st October 2024. If you know someone making a difference, now’s the time to recognise their incredible efforts!

Winners will be announced at the National Care Awards in London on Friday, 29th November 2024. 🌟

Thank you for being an essential part of our caring community. Together, we make a difference! 💖

For more info, visit: https://buff.ly/41dgSWI

📢 Approximately 1.5 million people in the UK rely on social care services, including homecare, day care, and residential care. It's essential to continue sharing stories of those we've helped as the struggle persists for in need. Read Luca's story below ❤️🤗.

The first few months with a new baby are supposed to be among the most special times in parents' lives. However, when Luca's partner, Anja, was placed in critical care following the birth of their daughter, Luca found himself struggling to pay the rent. He had taken leave from work to care for their newborn.

"I’ve always worked full-time and been the primary earner in our family, so taking time off work meant I was struggling to make ends meet," Luca explained.

He was advised to apply for benefits, but the process was taking weeks. Without access to Anja's bank account, Luca was unable to rely on her contribution to household finances until she was discharged from the hospital.

Luca's manager told him about The Care Workers’ Charity. Desperate to pay his rent, which was due soon, Luca reached out to them for assistance. "I wasn’t sure if I would qualify; I thought there were people worse off than me. But I was worried about paying our rent, so I applied," Luca said.

The Care Workers’ Charity approved a crisis grant towards his rent, alleviating some of the financial pressure while he awaited the benefits. Luca felt immense relief as he could focus on caring for his baby and helping her spend time with her mother, who was recovering in the hospital.

"Anja is home now with the baby, and we are finally enjoying being new parents. I am back at work, and we are working towards getting our finances in order," Luca shared.

Since 2020, we have awarded £6.2 million in grants. We need your support to assist the many care workers in need. There are 1.6 million care and support workers in the UK, many of whom live below the real living wage, making them vulnerable to financial hardship in times of crisis. Your support enables us to expand our grant programs and strengthen our services so that care workers can receive timely help.

We appreciate your time and effort in fundraising. Your donations are used responsibly and make a huge difference.

Donate here: https://buff.ly/3NaUN7s

We are so grateful for the support of Championing Social Care and to be a chosen charity at the Care Sector Fundraising Ball ✨

This is going to be another highlight of the year. This year the ball is raising funds for us and

Book your table today > https://lnkd.in/gx2FkdQW

The Care Workers' Charity is dedicated to advancing the financial, professional, and mental well-being of care workers across the UK.

We achieve this through grants, resource guidance, mental health support, and advocacy for fair pay, working conditions and recognition. Through our initiatives, care workers receive crucial assistance during times of need and benefit from ongoing development opportunities and meaningful engagement in shaping the policies that affect their profession.

We have so far helped 12.2 thousand with £6.1 million in grants and support since 2020. Please support us to do more

📢 The Care Workers’ Charity Responds to Skills for Care Report on Adult Social Care Workforce in England 📢

On the latest report from Skills for Care, "The Size and Structure of the Adult Social Care Workforce in England 2023/24," Karolina Gerlich, CEO of The Care Workers’ Charity, says:

“It is encouraging to see a decrease in vacant posts of 22,000. That the main driver behind this is international recruitment suggests two things to me. One is that we need to show a greater level of support for people coming internationally to work in the care sector. We hope that measures such as not allowing care workers to be accompanied by their family will be removed and that the wellbeing of those providing care and support will be better prioritised. Secondly, we know that while contributing significantly to the care sector, international recruitment is not a silver bullet. There must be concurrent investment in training and development as well as real incentives for experienced long-term staff to stay in their roles.

It is notable that vacancy levels in adult social care are higher than NHS vacancies and most other employment sectors across the UK. This is not surprising when care work is continually listed as one of the lowest paying roles in the UK and paid, on average, 36% less than for NHS equivalent roles. Care workers we speak to continually tell us despite some of the challenges of their role, they love the jobs they do. We must support them to stay in these roles through improved pay, value, and recognition for the important work they do.”

📢 The Care Workers Charity Welcomes New Report on Improving Care Worker Pay in England 📢

The Care Workers Charity welcomes the joint report by the Health Foundation and Nuffield Trust, ‘From ambition to reality: National policy options to improve care worker pay in England.’

Karolina Gerlich, CEO says, "I was pleased to be invited to feed into this work outlining five key policy options to enhance compensation for care workers. Care workers deserve to be paid fairly for their indispensable work, yet they are continually listed as one of the lowest paying roles in the UK and paid, on average, 36% less than for NHS equivalent roles. Considering the government's commitment to a fair pay agreement, it is great to see this report set out five clear policy options regarding pay for care workers, drawing on international learning.

It is heartening to see public support for increased pay for care workers with 77% of the public agreeing their pay is too low. It is also great to see wide support for suggested measures to increase pay, with the introduction of pay scales supported by 85% of the public. Recognising care workers' experience and having wages increase as they take on new responsibilities in their roles is something we have long campaigned for. We also support calls for wage increases for care workers above the minimum wage along with bonuses that recognise the hard work and sacrifices made by care workers. Although less popular with the public it was great to see these proposals were also supported by 77% and 65% of the public respectively.

It is clear, as the report highlights, that any of the measures must be costed and fully funded by the national government. While there are no easy answers, not funding this work properly also comes at a cost—impacting both care workers and those that draw on social care. We hope the government will read this report and use it as a starting point for action on care worker pay. Care workers have proven time and again their commitment to their roles. It is now time for the government to show an equal commitment to them, recognising and valuing their contributions properly.”

The Care Workers Charity believes that the implementation of these policy options is crucial for ensuring that care workers are fairly compensated for their vital role in society. The charity continues to advocate for the recognition and proper remuneration of care workers, aligning with the overwhelming public support for such measures.

📢 The Care Workers’ Charity Responds to the Launch of the New Workforce Strategy for Adult Social Care in England 📢

The Care Workers' Charity is pleased to respond to the launch of the new Workforce Strategy for Adult Social Care in England, led by kills for Care in collaboration with the sector. Karolina Gerlich, CEO of The Care Workers’ Charity, says:

"This Workforce Strategy is an incredible achievement and marks a significant milestone in addressing both the immediate and long-term needs of the adult social care workforce. It has been great to be part of the steering group and working groups with colleagues across the care sector.

We are pleased to see recommendations on increasing pay, promoting wellbeing, and investment in training, including training in technology which care workers have expressed a need for. It is encouraging to see a wide recognition of the central role of the care workforce and their skills, knowledge, and experience, and a commitment to increasing awareness of this vital profession. Care workers are dedicated and skilled professionals who provide essential services to those drawing on social care. They deserve recognition, respect, and pay levels that reflect the responsibilities of their roles. The new strategy includes promising plans for retaining experienced care workers, who are experts in their field, and a comprehensive framework for training and development, ensuring care workers feel valued and supported.
We would have liked to see firmer plans on professionalisation for care workers with a professional body to support a sense of belonging and set professional standards.

Nonetheless, this strategy can transform the public perception of care and care workers. It is an excellent starting point for future conversations on what the adult social care workforce needs to ensure the wellbeing of the workforce and those they support. We hope the new government will recognise the extensive work that has gone into consulting with people across the sector and work with care leaders and frontline care workers to implement this strategy as soon as possible.”

Mark the date in your diaries!

Mark your calendars for August 8th, 2024! 🎉

Join us at The Joseph Rowntree Theatre in York for an unforgettable night of talent, fun, and fabulous performances 🎭✨

Grab your tickets now and cheer on your favorite contestant, whether they're family, friends, or colleagues!

Book Tickets Here : https://www.josephrowntreetheatre.co.uk/whats-on/all-shows/homecares-got-talent/2716/ #

📢 The Care Workers’ Charity Responds to ADASS Spring Survey 2024

In response to the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services (ADASS) Spring Survey 2024, Karolina Gerlich, CEO of The Care Workers’ Charity, expressed concern over the financial pressures impacting social care services. "We are unsurprised by the findings that services are being impacted by financial pressures as we have long been aware of the underfunding in adult social care, but it is still worrying to read such a high percentage of social care Directors (90%) do not think that their budgets will be sufficient to fully meet their statutory duties. We agree with the report's recommendations that the new Government should commit to multiyear funding and would like to see this include provisions for care worker wellbeing.

We have long recognised the interdependence between the NHS and social care sectors and advocated for parity of esteem and pay so it is concerning that care workers are continuing to take on more NHS tasks without additional funding. Care workers have the skills needed for these responsibilities and deserve increased pay and recognition. We welcome the report's recommendations on increasing pay rates for care workers and the recognition of the social benefits of this for individual care workers and the wider community.

The survey's finding that ensuring staff have the skills and confidence to maximize the use of digital tools is crucial for upscaling and mainstreaming technology in adult social care aligns with feedback from care workers in our care worker roundtable with Oxford University. Care workers want comprehensive training and continuous learning opportunities to understand and effectively use AI technology. They also emphasise the need for clear policies and procedures from employers regarding the use of AI and technology, specifying when and how these tools should be employed.

The Care Workers’ Charity strongly supports the survey’s recommendation to invest in people, particularly the care workforce, and the acknowledgment of their skill and compassion. It is crucial to invest in this essential workforce to safeguard the sustainability and quality of adult social care services."