UK Immigration Changes and the Future of Care Services in Gloucestershire: How Ellia Can Help
The UK government recently unveiled significant changes to immigration policies through a White Paper that aims to "take back control of our borders" and reduce net migration figures. These changes will profoundly affect the care sector which has heavily relied on international recruitment in recent years. As care providers and families across Gloucestershire prepare for these shifts, understanding the potential impacts and available solutions is crucial for ensuring continued support for those who need it most.
Close-up of two elderly people holding hands while walking down a quiet street.
Recent UK Immigration Policy Changes Affecting Care Services
The UK’s immigration framework is undergoing its most substantial transformation in over a decade. On 12 May 2025, Prime Minister Keir Starmer introduced reforms targeting net migration reduction, responding to figures exceeding 700,000 in recent years. These measures are expected to have a profound impact on the care sector, which has relied heavily on overseas staff.
Key Measures Impacting Care Workers
The new policies include:
Elimination of the overseas social care visa route, removing a dedicated pathway for international care workers.
Extended settlement requirements, increasing the qualifying period from five to ten years.
Mandatory English proficiency tests for all visa applicants and adult dependents.
Prioritisation of existing care workers, requiring care providers to recruit internationally trained staff already in England before overseas hiring.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasised ending overseas care worker recruitment, signalling a shift in staffing strategies. These changes may reduce lower-skilled worker influx by approximately 50,000 annually.
Current Care Workforce Dynamics and Projected Shortfalls
Current Care Workforce Dynamics and Projected Shortfalls
England’s adult social care sector employs around 1.84 million people, with international recruitment stabilising the workforce in recent years. Between 2022/23 and 2023/24, filled posts rose by 4.2%, while vacancies fell by 14.6%, thanks largely to 105,000 overseas recruits. However, domestic recruitment continues to decline, with 30,000 fewer British nationals filling posts in 2023/24.
71% of care providers report ongoing recruitment challenges, and
37% are concerned about sustaining services over the next six months.
With Gloucestershire’s population aging faster than the national average (over 21% of residents are 65+) the region faces acute risks of unmet care needs and increased isolation.
Emerging Challenges
Declining domestic recruitment: British nationals filled 30,000 fewer posts in 2023/24, continuing a downward trend.
Provider concerns: 71% of care providers report recruitment challenges, with 37% worried about sustaining services over six months.
Demand-supply mismatch: An ageing population exacerbates care needs, straining resources amid recruitment constraints.
Industry analysts predict "much lower international recruitment levels" in 2024/25, risking gaps in formal care provision, particularly in regions like Gloucestershire.
Addressing the Care Gap: Ellia’s Role in Gloucestershire
As formal care services face staffing shortages, Ellia’s model provides an alternative for non-medical support. Our services target needs likely to be deprioritised and ensures continuity of care.
Two people in a peaceful countryside field. One person sits in a wheelchair, while the other stands beside them, pointing towards something in the distance.
Flexible, Non-Medical Support
Ellia offers in-home assistance starting at £22 per hour, covering:
Home help: Domestic chores, meal preparation and technology support.
Wellbeing assistance: Daily routines, gentle exercise and paperwork.
Recovery support: Post-hospitalisation aid including medication reminders.
Social connection: Companionship and community outings to combat isolation.
Advantages of Ellia’s Model
Consistency: Clients receive support from a dedicated helper
Customisable packages: Options from £44/week (Flexible Essentials) to £152/week (Complete Support).
Preventative focus: Proactive assistance reduces reliance on intensive later interventions.
Strategic Planning for Families and Individuals
Proactive measures can mitigate care shortages:
Assess needs: Evaluate daily tasks, social engagement, and anticipated requirements.
Blend care models: Combine formal services with Ellia’s flexible support.
Build networks: Strengthen ties with local organisations and community resources.
For a free consultation or to discuss your needs, contact Ellia directly via www.ellia.org.uk or call 01452 447 109.
Conclusion: Collaborative Adaptation
Immigration reforms present challenges, but innovative solutions like Ellia’s ensure Gloucestershire residents continue receiving quality support. We uphold wellbeing amid policy shifts by integrating formal care with community-driven assistance.
