Guidance and support in response to recent unrest across the UK

Dear members,

The UK has recently witnessed a troubling wave of unrest, marked by riots and antiimmigration protests in certain towns. While these actions are perpetrated by a very small minority, they have understandably caused concern among our international colleagues, particularly those working in the social care sector. We want to assure you that these acts have been universally condemned by both the Government and broader society, and they are being dealt with robustly by law enforcement.

As we are all aware, the social care sector is bolstered by the dedication of tens of thousands of international workers, who are integral to the compassionate care we provide every day. Considering the recent events, NorCA is providing guidance to ensure that providers can offer the necessary support and reassurance to their international staff during this unsettling time.

In a statement yesterday, the Health and Social Care Secretary, Wes Streeting, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to protecting those who care for others, stating: “I will not tolerate, under any circumstances, NHS or social care staff in any health or care setting being subjected to intimidation, harassment, or racist abuse. We have a zero-tolerance policy in the NHS, and we will take a zero-tolerance approach in social care too. The country is fortunate to have individuals from around the world providing exceptional care, and I believe that the vast majority of Brits are proud of this contribution.”

Guidance for Care Home/Supported Living Managers and Staff – Support for International Staff:

• Reiterate to all migrant staff that their work is highly valued and appreciated, just as much as any other staff member.
• Make it clear that discrimination has no place in our sector or in society.
• Encourage staff to stay vigilant and exercise due caution.
• Keep up with local news and any advisories issued by local security agencies.
• Advise staff to avoid areas where protests are underway or expected.
• Encourage avoidance of confrontations and advise against traveling alone where possible.
• Remind staff to contact the police immediately if they feel threatened due to the unrest.

Safety Measures for Care Homes:

• Ensure that all external doors are secured, especially during night time.
• Confirm that all staff are familiar with emergency procedures and have access to an emergency phone.
• Verify that exterior lighting is functioning properly.
• Screen all visitors to the building as per standard procedures.
• Evaluate how migrant staff commute to and from work, ensuring their routes are safe.
• Review and reinforce lone working policies.
• Make it clear to all migrant staff that they can approach management with any concerns.
• Offer and arrange pastoral care or additional support for migrant workers and their families if needed.

Additional Guidance for Home Care/Domiciliary/Care Home/Supported Living Providers:

• Route Planning: Encourage care workers to plan their routes carefully, avoiding areas where unrest or protests are taking place. If possible, provide alternative routes or transport options.
• Check-In Protocols: Establish regular check-in times for care workers when they are out on visits, ensuring they can report any concerns or incidents quickly.
• Safety in Numbers: Where possible, pair up workers for visits to higher-risk areas to enhance their safety.
• Client Communication: Inform clients of the situation and work with them to reschedule visits if the situation is deemed unsafe for staff.
• Emergency Contacts: Ensure all care workers have a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities and management, that they can reach out to if they feel unsafe.
• Personal Safety Training: Provide refresher training on personal safety, emphasising the importance of staying alert and avoiding confrontations.
• Support Resources: Offer access to counselling or other support services for staff who may feel anxious or affected by the ongoing unrest.

Business Continuity Planning: In light of the recent unrest, it is essential to review and follow your organisation’s business continuity plan for major incidents. This plan should ensure that your team is prepared to respond effectively to any disruptions, maintain the continuity of care, and safeguard the wellbeing of both staff and service users. Regular reviews and clear communication will be key to navigating these challenging times. Norfolk County Council have a Business Continuity Team who can be contacted for additional support.

These steps are intended to not only protect the safety of your staff but also to ensure that everyone feels supported and valued during this difficult period. NorCA is committed to standing by our members and the diverse workforce that sustains our vital sector.

Please reach out if you need more support or guidance.

Yours sincerely,

The Norfolk Care Association