Brexit Care Sector Crisis Predicted for 2026

Brexit could result in a workforce crisis in the care sector, a study has found.
It seems that, according to an Analysis of ONS data, there could be up to 115,000 less care workers active in the industry by 2026 – but this number would only be a factor if the freedom of movement was to end.
This analysis of official figures suggests that the care sector has become increasingly dependent on low-skilled EU workers, and these individuals are the ones expected to face limitations at the time of Brexit.
Present stats show there are currently 1.3 million care workers active, however, 2 million will be required by the year of 2035 in order to effectively handle the ever-rising quantity of elders.
The care market is already straining to cope with the demand, and these findings are causing alarm bells in a workforce whereby help is required for elderly people and disabled individuals in particular.
Research has uncovered that the number of care workers from outside the EU has decreased over the past 6 years because of the restrictions put on low-skilled workers throughout the rest of the world.
Director of Global Future, Peter Starkings, commented on the situation: “Ending free movement after Brexit would cause a social care workforce crisis. Social care is already overstretched, and cutting the number of care staff by 100,000 would have a direct impact on the quality of life of elderly and disabled people.”
It seems that direct action is needed – this is an important issue that cannot be ignored and influencers should take note and try to resolve the problem.
> Hannah Montgomery