A coalition of major NHS, care and workers’ organisations from across the UK are voicing “profound concern” about the impact of Boris Johnson’s immigration plans on the care sector.

In a letter to the Prime Minister 29 bodies warn the Immigration Bill is “swiftly heading towards an alarming destination” for social care across the country.

The Cavendish Coalition, which was set up to influence the debate about health and care after Brexit, includes the Royal College of Nursing, the Academy of Royal Colleges and Unison, as well as a host of NHS and care groups from England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Though the proposed new points-based system has exemptions for registered health and care professionals from abroad who want to come to work in the UK, the coalition says it “excludes” social care staff.

Around seven in ten current EU workers would not have been eligible to come to the UK under the plans, which mean prospective workers have to meet a number of skills requirements and have a job offer with a minimum salary of £25,600.

Just under 10,000 EU nationals work in care in Scotland, according to government statistics, which is 5.6% of the total care workforce.

Donald Macaskill, CEO of Scottish Care, which represents independent providers, agrees the proposals will have a “profound impact” on the sector.

“It is a matter of deep regret that the UK Government has failed to consistently listen to the calls of Scottish Care and others to prioritise social care in the new models,” he says.

“This failure to listen will unfortunately mean that those who need the support and professionalism of our EU colleagues will suffer the most.”

Recent Home Office decisions not to include foreign care staff in visa extensions and fee waivers given to health workers have been heavily criticised during the pandemic.

The virus has revealed disparities between the NHS and social care in a number of areas such as PPE, testing and funding, according to the Cavendish Coalition.

“Currently, there appears to be recognition of the problem and ambition for the long-term solution but little thought about the short-term collateral if services cannot be properly staffed,” the group says.

“The proposed new immigration system must provide a migratory route for social care staff; they are and always have been key workers.

“If praise does not turn swiftly to action, the applause of an appreciative nation will echo hollow and we will have fewer carers to hear them.”

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