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What are the new visa rules for care workers in the UK?
The UK government has introduced new visa rules that affect the recruitment of overseas care workers. These changes include a higher minimum salary requirement for foreign workers compared to their British counterparts, which has sparked concerns about fairness and potential exploitation within the sector.
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How are these changes affecting pay disparities?
The new visa regulations have led to a significant pay gap between foreign and British care workers. GMB Scotland has raised alarms that this disparity could be exploited by far-right parties, emphasizing the need for an emergency pay rise to ensure equity among all care workers.
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What are the potential consequences for the social care sector?
The changes to visa rules are exacerbating an existing staffing crisis in the social care sector, with many positions remaining unfilled. This could lead to increased pressure on current staff and a decline in the quality of care provided, as the sector struggles to meet the demands of an aging population.
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What do experts say about the need for reform?
Experts, including GMB Scotland and various media commentators, are calling for urgent reforms in the social care sector. They argue that improved pay and working conditions are essential to attract and retain workers, particularly in light of the recent visa cancellations and recruitment challenges.
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What actions are being proposed to address the crisis?
In response to the ongoing issues, there are calls for a £2,000 pay rise for care workers. This proposal aims to address the pay disparities and improve the overall conditions in the sector, which many view as a national scandal that requires immediate attention.