Wendy Dunsmore, Unite Scotland’s local authority RISC officer, brings you this update.
As care workers are putting themselves at risk every day carrying out a job that cares forthose msot vulnerable in our society, Unite is calling on local authorities and the Scottish Government to recognise these essential workers by fully funding the costs of the SSSC registration fee for these low-paid heroes.
Care workers must be registered with the SSSC to carry out their job. In recent years, councils have passed the cost of the registration on to low-paid carers, who are predominantly female. Registration can cost between £25 and £80 dependent on the role.
Unite believes there are no other workers who have to meet costs for their own employment. It is unfair and unacceptable to expect carers to do so.
Carers provide selfless and courageous work during the COVID-19 pandemic. Forcing them to meet these costs leaves a bitter taste in the mouths of carers.
Next steps
Unite is meeting with Scottish Government officials this week to press for this payment to be met by the employer. It is unacceptable to impose this cost on to carers.
We will keep you informed of our progress.