In a powerful and timely article, Debbie Clueit, RoSPA’s Qualifications Portfolio Manager, confronts the widespread misconception that adult social care work is “low-skilled.” Published in a leading industry magazine, the piece explores the urgent need to recognise, respect, and properly equip the UK’s adult social care workforce.

With over 130,000 unfilled vacancies and increasing demand for support, the sector is under intense pressure. Clueit highlights that care workers – who demonstrate compassion, resilience and complex problem-solving daily – lack access to formal qualifications that reflect their vital contributions. This, she argues, undermines recruitment, retention and morale.

RoSPA’s solution? Two new qualifications designed specifically for the sector. The Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate provides foundational training in essential skills like safeguarding and infection control and is funded by the Department of Health and Social Care. Meanwhile, the Level 2 Proportionate Single-Handed Care qualification promotes more personalised, efficient care methods.

This article doesn’t just outline a new path forward – it champions the people at the heart of social care, giving them the recognition and development opportunities they deserve. If you work in, manage, or care about the future of adult social care, this is essential reading.

Click the link to read the full article and see how these changes could shape the future of care.