SSSC forecast demand for adult social care qualifications is set to rise dramatically

The demand for adult social care qualifications is set to rise dramatically over the next four years according to a new report the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) published today.

The Workforce Skills Report 2021 looks at the current provision of qualifications for the social work, social care and early years workforce, demand for qualifications and how they meet current skills needs. It also looks at barriers to undertaking qualifications and what new skills are needed for the future.

All workers registered with the SSSC must hold, or be working towards, a qualification suitable for their role. If they don’t already hold one, they are registered with a condition to gain it, usually within five years.

The new report highlights that between 2021 and 2025 more than 68,000 registered workers in care homes for adults, care at home and housing support services need to meet a qualification condition. Most of these are met by the SVQ Social Services and Healthcare (SSH) at SCQF level 6, however based on recent average provision around 25,000 people will be able to start the award over the next four years. This gap between demand and supply is the biggest identified in the report

Lorraine Gray (pictured), SSSC Chief Executive, said: “This report highlights challenges in terms of supply and demand for qualifications but also opportunities, for example considering if the qualifications required for registration need to change.

“On the whole, the report shows that current qualifications are fit for purpose and equip workers with the necessary skills for their jobs. It also highlights new skills which are coming to the fore including digital skills, trauma informed practice and infection prevention and control.

“We look forward to working with employers, learning providers and other key partners to develop an action plan to address the skills challenges identified in the report.”

Click here to download the report.

Picture (c) The Scottish Social Services Council.