The social care sector needs significant long-term investment and support to recognise and value the care workforce, as highlighted through the COVID-19 pandemic.

Essex County Council has been taking positive actions across Essex developing initiatives to recruit and retain staff, promotion of the care sector as a valued place to develop a career in, and encouraging groups of young people that are underrepresented in the care workforce.

It comes as no surprise that employers who offer long-term skills development and professional training say the primary benefits are better skilled workers, better engagement and better retention.  We have developed a set of free and funded training programmes such as apprenticeships, degree programmes, mentoring and online coaching and webinars sessions.

Burnout and staff wellbeing are significant issues facing the workforce following the COVID-19 pandemic. To support and look after carers we have developed resources and promoted wellbeing support to help providers and their staff.