Workforce Matters at Scottish Care

Workforce Matters represents the voice of Scotland’s independent social care workforce. The team provides direct support to members across issues such as recruitment, retention, leadership and wellbeing. It also leads on engagement with policymakers, regulators and workforce planning bodies, ensuring that the independent sector’s priorities are reflected in national strategies. Our work is grounded in collaboration, working with partners like SSSC, the Care Inspectorate, and NES Social Care Directorate to promote fair work, equitable pay and professional recognition. We celebrate the diversity and expertise within our sector and are committed to helping every care provider and worker reach their full potential. Workforce Matters supports a culture where people feel empowered, confident and proud of the difference they make.

Scottish Care and the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) work collaboratively to support the social care workforce around all registration and regulatory requirements. This partnership ensures that the independent sector can contribute to the development of policy in relation to registration, regulation and fitness to practise. These meetings are jointly chaired by Caroline Deane, Scottish Care’s Workforce Policy and Practice Lead, and Jenni Tait, Acting Head of Registration at SSSC. The primary purpose of the group is to create a consistent platform for Scottish Care members to meet regularly with key regulatory bodies including SSSC, the Care Inspectorate, Disclosure Scotland, and NES Social Care Directorate. These sessions strengthen relationships, encourage collaboration, and provide a space for members to raise sector issues, inform policy decisions and shape future best practice.

Workforce Matters provides access to a wide range of learning and development resources designed to help independent providers build confident, capable teams. Working alongside partners such as NES Social Care Directorate and SSSC, the programme supports leadership growth, staff wellbeing, and ongoing professional education. Members can access resources covering topics such as workforce planning, recruitment and retention, leadership development, and digital learning opportunities. These tools are continuously updated to reflect sector priorities and emerging policy. By championing professional learning, Workforce Matters empowers staff to thrive and ensures high-quality, person-centred care across the independent sector.