Sector Pulse Check 2024

Welcome to our latest Sector Pulse Check report. This annual report is based on responses from more than 200 small, medium and large adult social care providers. Together, they’re responsible for supporting over 128,000 people. Responses were collected mid-2024. The report gives an overview of the current state of the social care sector and presents the case for urgent change.

Financial Pressures

90.1% of providers listed workforce related costs as one of their top financial pressures. Of workforce related costs, the biggest challenges were:

85% of providers said that local authority fee increases didn’t cover the costs of a higher National Living Wage.

Workforce challenges

International recruitment was the most frequently reported method for filling vacancies. 40% of organisations use this strategy.

Policy recommendations

We recommend two major policy initiatives. These will help make sure the sector is financially sustainable long-term and can recruit enough care workers:

1. Commit to a credible, multi-year funding settlement for the adult social care sector when the Spending Review concludes in Summer 2025.
2. Create a fully funded roadmap toward parity between care workers and workers in the NHS.

While the report illustrates many challenges, we are filled with hope for a better future. We have a sector brimming with talent, ambition and enthusiasm. The report sets out realistic, easily implementable policies. We look forward to working with government to make these a reality so our sector can thrive, not just survive.