Spinal Injuries Association issues statement on care sector and immigration

Charity The Spinal Injuries Association has issued a statement in response to the UK Government’s Immigration White Paper.

Prime Minister Kier Stamer said that the ‘strategy will finally take back control of our borders and close the book on a squalid chapter for our politics, our economy, and our
country.’

The SIA responded:

“The Spinal Injuries Association recognises the government’s efforts to reform immigration and welfare policies.

“However, we are concerned about the potential impact of these changes on individuals living with spinal cord injuries.

“The recent proposals outlined in today’s Immigration White Paper, which include plans to end overseas recruitment for care workers, come at a time when the social care sector is already experiencing significant staffing shortages.

Individuals with spinal cord injuries often rely on specialised care, and any reduction in the availability of trained care workers could adversely affect their quality of life.

“We also note that the Casey Commission, established to develop a national care service, is not expected to report its final recommendations until 2028.

“Given the urgency of the current challenges in social care, and today’s proposals, we urge the government to consider interim measures to address immediate needs.

“We call upon the government to ensure that reforms are implemented in a manner that safeguards the rights and well-being of individuals with spinal cord injuries, and to engage with stakeholders to develop sustainable solutions for the social care sector.”