Page 60 - Regional Employment & Skills Plan 2019
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 60
 Challenges
The main challenges reported by businesses operating within the Health and Social Care sector in the region are; financial challenges (60%), recruitment (50%) and making a profit (40%). These are consistent with findings derived from previous consultation results.
The Workforce
The most recent statistics indicate that the majority of the workforce are female and aged between 45 and 54. This is representative of the primary evidence gathered by the RLSP where 63% of respondents reported that the majority of their workforce is female.
A contributing factor to this could be the negative perception of the sector that is held by some. The perception of the sector was reported as a challenge by 27% of respondents, which of course is directly related to recruitment.
Negative perceptions include;
• Low paid,
• Long unsocial hours,
• Under-appreciation,
• Intensive training,
• Seen as a female profession.
The care sector is under growing pressure which could result in a shortfall of 718,000 care workers by 2025, therefore it is imperative that the sector is made attractive to everyone, including men. Societal perception has taken the focus away from the core values that underpin health and care – dignity, compassion, choice and respect, these apply just as much to men as women.
It is clear though, there is a need to promote the sector more widely, highlighting its positives;
 • • • • • •
Diversity of roles, Flexible hours, Part-time working, Career progression, Training opportunities, Transferable skills.
ageing workforce in Health and Social Care is seen as a critical factor with a high leaver/retirement rate
An
which is exacerbated by the limited number of young new entrants to the labour force to counteract the loss of qualified and experienced staff.
Work-readiness
The majority of respondents indicated that the work readiness of new entrants ‘varies’ (54%), with 34% stating that they are work ready. The majority reported that the desired level of work experience is missing with individuals, followed by the desired skills or qualifications.
Workplace experience is seen as an essential for the sector, with traditional classroom based teaching methods not equipping individuals with the desired level of practical competence.
Regional Employment & Skills Plan South West & Mid Wales
Sector Profiles











































































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