The Care Workers’ Charity acknowledges the Government’s publication of ‘Restoring Control over the Immigration System – May 2025’ and is deeply concerned about its implications for the future of the adult social care sector.

We fully recognise the urgent need to address modern slavery and exploitation—no worker should be at risk of abuse. However, the solution is not to remove Health and Care Worker Visas. Tackling systemic issues requires strong regulation, robust safeguarding, and fair recruitment practices, not restrictions that will damage an already overstretched sector.

We welcome the government’s recognition of the proposed Fair Pay Agreement and its potential to empower workers, employers, and sector representatives to negotiate improved employment terms. However, framing this as a path to reducing reliance on overseas workers entirely misses the mark. Migrant care workers are not a temporary fix—they are a vital part of the adult social care workforce and the lives of those drawing on care and support.

With 131,000 vacancies reported in 2024 alone  (Skills for Care), the care sector is facing a chronic staffing crisis. Migrant care workers are essential to the functioning of our care system and contribute significantly not only to the sector but to wider society. They deserve to be valued, respected, and protected—not overlooked or erased.

Any suggestion that care work is “low-skilled” is wholly inaccurate and deeply disrespectful. Care work requires compassion, expertise, emotional intelligence, and resilience. It is skilled, responsible, vital, and should be treated as such in immigration policy and beyond.

We call on the government to ensure that immigration reform does not worsen the crisis in adult social care. Policies must prioritise safe recruitment, fair treatment, and long-term workforce investment. Without migrant care workers, the care sector would face collapse—acknowledging their value is not just right, it’s essential.

For further information please contact Sophie Henry at The Care Workers’ Charity on sophie@thecwc.org.uk.