Social and Care

Social & Care Occupations
Employment levels grew slightly above the national average for social and care occupations, with an additional 25,000 persons employed since 2018. This primarily related to increases in employment of care workers and healthcare assistants (in the other caring services category). These two occupations also accounted for the largest share of employment permits issued in this occupational group in 2023. Over three-quarters of those employed in social and care occupations were female with almost a third employed part-time. With an ageing population, demand for care roles is likely to be in increasing demand in the years to come.

Skills shortages:

  • Healthcare assistants

Labour shortages:

  • Care workers

See National Skills Bulletin 2024 for more details.

Download Summary