Dawn Bowden MS, Minister for Children and Social Care
Social Care Wales has published the results of its latest Have Your Say Social Care Workforce Survey https://insightcollective.socialcare.wales/reports/have-your-say-workforce-survey-2025-full-report-and-summary-of-responses, now in its third year. Over 5,700 social care workers responded, offering valuable insights from across the sector.
The survey explored key themes including wellbeing, pay and conditions, career progression, training needs, motivations for working in social care, and what the workforce values most. It remains a vital opportunity for the sector to share its experiences and help shape future policy and support.
I want to thank everyone who took the time to respond. Ensuring the voice of the workforce is heard is essential, and we will continue working through the Social Care Fair Work Forum to encourage wider participation in future surveys.
The findings once again highlight the remarkable dedication of our social care workforce. It is encouraging to see improvements in wellbeing, with levels now above the UK average. Increases in life satisfaction, happiness, and sense of purpose suggest a more positive workplace culture. The report clearly shows that those working in care do so out of a deep commitment to helping others.
However, we must also acknowledge the ongoing pressures. Anxiety levels have risen, particularly among social workers, and are now above the UK average. This is concerning, and I want to reiterate that support is available through Canopi—our free mental health service for health and social care staff.
The survey also shows 68% of respondents reported satisfaction with their terms and conditions, these findings reinforce the importance of our continued work and commitment to improve pay and conditions across the sector.
The recent evaluation of the Real Living Wage (RLW) showed that over 80% of the workforce is now benefitting from this commitment. However, we must do more to reach those who are not yet included.
The Social Care Fair Work Forum is finalising a voluntary Pay and Progression Framework for social care, with further details to be shared in the new year. This framework will support consistent pay and highlight career development opportunities across the sector.
In parallel, we are working with the UK Government on the Employment Rights Bill and Fair Pay Agreements for social care. The Senedd has passed the legislative consent motion for Wales, and we will soon consult on the development of a Negotiating Body to set Fair Pay Agreements for the sector. While this process will take time, Welsh Government remains committed to progressing existing work until these agreements provide the legal foundation for fair pay.
The Social Care Workforce Partnership continues to work in social partnership, bringing together government, employers, and trade unions to agree models of best practice for the independent sector. Following engagement with the sector, the following priorities have been agreed and will be shared early next year:
- Recognition Agreements and Trade Union Access
- Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures
- Health and Safety, including protection from workplace violence
Recruitment and retention remain key priorities. We are committed to scaling up best practice, creating clear pathways for progression, and improving the perception of social care as a career for life.
By continuing to work in close partnership with the sector, I am confident we can address the challenges highlighted in the survey and deliver meaningful change. I want to thank every member of our social care workforce for your unwavering commitment and the vital role you play in supporting the most vulnerable in our society.
You are valued, and I remain dedicated to driving forward the change you deserve. Together, we can build a stronger, fairer, and more supportive social care sector for Wales.