Homecare workers in Lambeth have received a collective pay increase of £1 million in the past year after the council committed to the Ethical Care Charter, ensuring fair wages and better working conditions for nearly 900 carers.
Since signing up to UNISON’s Ethical Care Charter last March, Lambeth Council has introduced significant improvements for homecare staff, including paying for travel time between appointments. This change alone has given many workers an annual pay rise of approximately £1,400, benefiting a workforce largely made up of female, minority ethnic, and local employees.
Cllr Tim Windle, Cabinet Member for Healthier Communities, praised the move, saying:
“Our care staff work incredibly hard to support our residents, and yet so many have been struggling with the cost-of-living crisis. That’s why it’s vital that we ensure homecare workers are paid the London Living Wage, as well as receiving payment for travel time and expenses.”
A New Model for Homecare
Lambeth Council is currently redesigning its homecare services under a new neighbourhood-based model, with eight contracts focused on local communities and a borough-wide reserve providers list. The aim is to integrate homecare workers more closely with primary care and community health services, ensuring better continuity of care for residents.
This model will also encourage closer collaboration with housing neighbourhood teams, allowing carers to respond more quickly to individual needs while reducing travel time.
Commitment to Ethical Care
By adopting the Ethical Care Charter, Lambeth has set higher standards for homecare, ensuring carers are treated fairly while improving the quality and stability of the sector. The Charter establishes minimum standards for safety, dignity, and quality of care by guaranteeing fair wages, proper training, and sustainable working conditions for staff.
With these positive changes already in motion, Lambeth is demonstrating its commitment to creating a more supportive and sustainable homecare system for both workers and residents.
