ADASS responds to Fair Pay Agreement announcement

In response to the Government’s Fair Pay Agreement announcement, Phil Holmes, President of ADASS, said:

“ADASS supports the Government’s ambition for a Fair Pay Agreement (FPA). We believe that adult social care staff are highly skilled and welcome this opportunity to strengthen and retain the workforce, recognising those who provide care and support, via fairer pay.

“However, the lack of local government direct influence at the negotiation table remains a concern. How the FPA is implemented and paid for is crucial. The expected guidance for Commissioners must be co-designed with local government to ensure the best chance of success.

“This cannot be a one-off. Spending reviews will need to factor in the need for funding at each round to ensure fair pay for care workers on a sustainable basis. This will require increased, long-term funding that enables pay to rise over time and supports the ongoing recruitment and retention of a skilled care workforce.

We look forward to working with Government on the FPA. We are keen to support Ministers and colleagues to develop better outcomes for those supporting people in adult social care.”