Final push to deliver the Living Wage for care staff
PRESSURE is growing for an 11th hour deal between councils and service providers if Scotland’s Living Wage policy is to be salvaged for care workers.
A quarter of local authorities are yet to agree rates with charities and private firms to provide housing support and care at home, days before Saturday’s deadline that marks the start of a new pay regime of at least £8.25 an hour for frontline staff.
Many employers say they will be unable to do so because of unrealistic rates on offer from some councils.
Health Secretary Shona Robison was questioned about the crisis at Holyrood’s Health and Sport committee amid warnings at least 15 care at home companies were preparing to cease to trade, threatening thousands of jobs. Agreements have not been reached in 12 local authority areas.
But after a showdown with the minister, Donald MacAskill, chief executive of umbrella group Scottish Care, was more optimistic deals might be reached.
It is understood only eight council areas are causing concern, with no deal in four, while the remaining four are offering rates for care at homes said to be unviable by charities and firms asked to provide services.
Mr MacAskill said it was reassuring the problem was now being taken seriously and said Scottish Care were working with local and national bodies to get a deal over the line.
Ms Robison said she understood the “complexities” of implementing the Living Wage, adding: “We wrote to commissioners to identify any local issues, so further support could be provided where needed.”
She conceded the scheme was ambitious but further support would be provided.