Recently we have seen unprecedented pressures on recruitment of staff within the social care sector. International recruitment is one tool in a providers recruitment toolbox and supports the development of a skilled and diverse workforce.
On this page we share guidance from the Home Office and DHSC which will support providers across adult social care to recruit from overseas ethically. We will also share current examples of best practice from employers across a variety of settings.
DHSC and Home Office guidance
Home Office – Social care: points-based immigration
This presentation gives key information about changes to the shortage occupation list, the health and social care visa and right to work checks.
PDF - 586 KB
This acompanying document answers some common questions about recruiting from overseas.
Department of Health & Social Care - Ensuring ethical recruitment
Dave Howarth from the DHSC explains what ethical recruitment is and the Cod of Practice for International Recruitment.
UK Visas & Immigration - How to apply for a sponsor licence
Andy Edgar explains the key stages of licence applications and how to provide a thorough and effective application.
International recruitment virtual event
On 24 December 2021, the Government announced social care workers, care assistants and home care workers will become eligible for the Health and Care Visa. This is in addition to senior care workers and registered managers who are already included in the list of eligible roles for the Health and Care visa. Skills for Care held a series of virtual events to provide information and guidance around these changes.
Duration 1 hour 53 minutes
PDF - 587 KB
This short guide, developed by Fragomen, covers the impact the end of free movement has had on immigration rules.
Employer experiences
Country Court - recruiting from overseas
Helen Meadows, Head of People at care provider Country Court, shares their experience recruiting internationally and gives a step by step overview of employing from overseas.
Askham - a perspective on international recruitment
Aliyyah Nasser of Askham shares their experience recruiting internationally, becoming a sponsor, supporting newly-arrived staff and the value they bring to their workforce.
Government guidance
The following content, published on gov.uk, offers more guidance and information around recruiting from overseas.
Code of practice for the international recruitment of health and social care personnel in England
Press release, 24 December 2021, 'Biggest visa boost for social care as Health and Care Visa scheme expanded'
Health and care worker visa
UK visa sponsorship for employers
Right to work checks: employing EU, EEA and Swiss citizens