It includes a national qualification with £20million earmarked for new apprenticeships.
Experts broadly welcomed yesterday’s move, but said the money would still not be sufficient to attract people to the notoriously underpaid job.
Gavin Edwards, of trade union Unison called the plan “long overdue”. But he warned: “Any attempt to fix the social care staffing crisis will be fatally undermined unless the Government delivers the investment and reform that’s desperately needed.
“Otherwise, it’s like putting a shiny new wing mirror on a car with a broken engine. Retail and hospitality pay much more with far less pressure.”
Mr Edwards also urged ministers to tackle rogue employers who drive down conditions for care workers, “leading to the highest vacancy rates in the UK economy”.
Anna Hemmings, of the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services, added: “The pressure on adult social care budgets means councils and care providers don’t have the money to improve pay for those staff qualified to take on more senior roles and responsibilities.
“This will be a significant barrier in making this work.”
Professor Martin Green, chief executive of providers body Care England, said: “The impetus is now on the Government to turn the tide and make good on their promise.”
Social care minister Helen Whately said the changes “will give brilliant care workers the chance to develop rewarding careers in social care”.
