New regulations that were introduced at the start of April now means that zero-hour contracts will be reduced for care workers in Wales. Thanks to a set of new rules, employers are now required to give those working in domiciliary care a choice of contract after a three month period.
These proposals were put forward when it was revealed that as many as 80% of the domiciliary care workers in Wales were working on zero hour contracts.
So, how will the reduction in zero-hour contracts help to benefit not only those providing care, but those receiving it too?
Benefits for care workers
- More stability and structure to their jobs
Zero hour contracts mean that care companies are under no obligation to give workers specific hours. This is often challenging for those with families and responsibilities outside of work that need to be back at their own homes to care for children at a certain time. Having a contract with specific working hours makes fitting in around family life much easier. - Continuity regarding pay
Those working on zero hour contracts could be working a variety of different hours that could differ greatly from week to week. Because of this, paying bills and planning for the future becomes a challenge. Being able to choose a contract will enable workers to find something that suits them, both in terms of pay and hours.
While the benefits of reducing the amount of zero hour contracts is paramount for care workers, it is also of great benefit to those that are receiving care, too. For individuals to receive adequate care, those that are providing it to them should be competent, trained and have the time, stability and continuity to do their jobs well.
Having said that, irrespective of the type of contract that a person has, funders need to ensure they pay care providers enough to ensure the needs of both staff and service users are met. This will ensure that quality care and support is always provided to the most vulnerable people that rely on it for their safety and wellbeing.
