First fair pay agreement for care workers

Yesterday (Thursday 16 July), the government announced the creation of an Adult Social Care Negotiating Body to deliver England’s first ever Fair Pay Agreement for the sector’s 1.5 million workers.

The body, comprising trade unions and employers, will negotiate on pay, terms and conditions, with an independent chair to be appointed in early 2027 and the first round of negotiations beginning in April 2027.

The first settlement is expected by April 2028, backed by £500 million. The government has also expanded the Care Workforce Pathway to cover nearly all adult social care roles.

Announcement: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/care-workers-to-be-represented-in-fair-pay-agreements

Appointment: https://apply-for-public-appointment.service.gov.uk/roles/9406

Care Workforce Pathway: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/care-workforce-pathway-for-adult-social-care/care-workforce-pathway-for-adult-social-care-overview

Written Ministerial Statement: https://questions-statements.parliament.uk/written-statements/detail/2026-07-16/hcws281