Commenting on the annual State of the Adult Social Care Sector and Workforce in England report, published by Skills for Care, Head of Practice and Workforce at the Royal College of Occupational Therapists, Suhailah Mohamed, said:
‘Recruitment can be tricky in all areas of social care, and we must do more to make a career in social care more attractive. We especially need to grow our own workforce and better support those who have chosen to work in our social care services from abroad. One way in which this could be done is to highlight the wide variety of careers within the social care sector, which includes occupational therapy.
‘On the eve of its first 100 days in office, the UK government needs to recognise the key role occupational therapists play in social care. There currently aren’t enough occupational therapists in the community to provide the support that people need to do essential daily occupations, such as getting in and out of bed, dressing, bathing and preparing meals. With the right support for people at home, there would be less pressure on an already-stretched healthcare service and workforce, saving money and reducing waiting lists.
‘Investment in the social care workforce is critical. More investment and a more targeted focus on recruitment and retention would mean we could help the people accessing social care services manage their health and daily living, as well as supporting them to live in homes that are safe and enable them to live quality lives.’