Government Announces Earned Settlement Reforms: What This Means for Adult Social Care Workers

The Government has announced its response to the Earned Settlement consultation, outlining changes to the UK’s settlement system and recognising the contribution of international care workers to the adult social care sector.

The announcement acknowledges the unique circumstances of care workers who came to the UK following the Covid-19 pandemic to fill essential roles and support the sector during a period of significant workforce pressures.

The Government has confirmed that this group will receive specific recognition under the reforms, while measures to tackle exploitation and abuse of the visa system will continue.

Additional protections for care workers affected by sponsor licence revocation

From 1 February 2027, care workers whose employer loses its sponsorship licence will be given additional time to find alternative sponsored employment and resolve their immigration status.

Under the announced arrangements, affected workers will have:

• Up to 120 days to secure a new job offer.
• A further 60 days to make the necessary visa arrangements.

This provides a total period of up to 180 days before visa curtailment, offering greater flexibility and protection for workers affected by circumstances beyond their control.

NorCA International Recruitment Support

Norfolk Care Association continues to support adult social care providers and internationally recruited care workers across Norfolk, helping them navigate challenges associated with international recruitment, sponsorship and employment.

We encourage providers and workers to familiarise themselves with the Government’s announcement and consider how the changes may affect them.

Read the full Government announcement:
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/home-secretary-unveils-new-rules-for-migrants-settling-in-the-uk

Read the Government’s consultation response:
https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6ae90b0e5b14ba0182a272a4/A_Fairer_Pathway_to_Settlement_-_Government_response_to_the_consultation.pdf