England is introducing new rules to prioritize recruiting care workers already in the country over those from overseas. Starting April 9, care providers must first attempt to recruit workers within England who need new sponsorship before hiring from abroad.
This change aims to reduce the reliance on international recruitment, tackle exploitation, and provide better job security for care workers. The government has already taken steps to prevent employers from exploiting international workers and has revoked over 470 sponsor licenses in the care sector since July 2022.
Key Highlights of the New Policy:
- Priority Recruitment: Employers must first try to recruit care workers already in England.
- Crackdown on Exploitation: Stricter rules and penalties for employers who exploit international workers.
- Fair Pay: Minimum hourly wage for care workers on the Skilled Worker visa increased to £12.82.
- Stronger Visa Rules: Tighter rules on Short-Term Student visas to prevent abuse.
Minister for Migration and Citizenship, Seema Malhotra, emphasizes that international care workers deserve the opportunity to work in England without exploitation.
Minister of State for Care, Stephen Kinnock, adds that prioritizing care workers already in the UK will help reduce reliance on international recruitment and ensure the social care sector has the professionals it needs.