The care sector needs migrant workers. Labour’s visa crackdown is a cynical move

‘It’s a cynical political move aimed at spiking Reform UK’s guns on immigration, rather than alleviating pressure on the much-maligned care sector.’ Photograph: lakshmiprasad S/Alamy

You are right to highlight, in your editorial, the folly of the government’s decision to make it harder for migrant workers to find work as carers in the UK (The Guardian view on Labour’s visa crackdown in social care: another problem for an overstretched system, 22 July).

It’s a cynical political move aimed at spiking Reform UK’s guns on immigration, rather than alleviating pressure on the much-maligned care sector. Migrant workers are indispensable in filling roles that have been undervalued, underpaid and unwanted for too long.

With thousands more care professionals needed to look after our ageing population, the government needs a joined-up approach if the crisis-ridden sector is to be transformed.

While the government’s fair pay agreement is the first step in turning care around, ministers must think again on their approach to foreign help – and, closer to home, announce the funding to make the fair pay agreement a reality.

Decent wages and sufficient staff are essential elements of the promised national care service the country needs so desperately.
Christina McAnea
General secretary, Unison

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