To encourage more people to take up jobs in the social care sector the Scottish Government will pay the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) checks and Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) registration for those applying.

Basic PVG checks cost £59.  SSSC registration costs between £25 and £80 depending on the role. The scheme from the Scottish Government is valid from now until the end of March.

Social Care was already under pressure due to staffing shortages before the pandemic hit. The sector delivers a range of services and the staffing crisis has been brought on by several issues one of which was the UK’s decision to leave the EU and the many workers who went back to Europe after that decision.

The scheme will cost the Scottish Government an estimated £465,000.

Commenting on the scheme, which has been brought in after consultation with COSLA – the body that represents Scotland’s local authorities, Keven Stewart, Social care minister Kevin Stewart said:

“Care workers have been absolutely critical to our pandemic response, giving vulnerable people the care they need and avoiding further pressure falling on the NHS.

“This trial aims to assist easing winter pressures in this sector by removing any financial barriers that may stop people from applying for a rewarding career in care.

“There are  significant pressures in social care due to high vacancy levels and increased demand. I hope this support will encourage those considering joining this vital workforce to go ahead and do so.

“We will continue to work closely with our partners to identify all possible ways we can assist the social care sector to aid recruitment and retention within the workforce at this critical time.”

The scheme covers services provided by local authorities, private and third sectors.