Skills crisis gathers pace

Almost three-quarters of social services departments are
struggling to recruit and retain social workers, a survey from the
Employers’ Organisation has revealed.

Eighty-two per cent of councils found the post of benefit
officer the most difficult to fill, with social worker positions
coming a close second at 74 per cent.

Of councils reporting skill gaps, social workers were identified
as lacking adequate professional skills and qualifications.

The findings demonstrate the need for the awareness campaign
launched by Community Care and the Local Government
Association last month.

See website www.lg-employers.gov.uk
for further information.

• The Employers’ Organisation asked chief executives this week to
  consider a 3.5 per cent pay rise for council employees after
  accepting that a 3 per cent rise was not viable.