Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what assessment his Department has made of the potential implications for its policies of exploitative employment practices by social care employers.

We have seen unacceptable increases in unethical practices and exploitation in the adult social care sector. The Department works closely with regulators, local authorities, other departments, and enforcement bodies to share concerns and intelligence about unethical practices in adult social care. The Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority investigates reports of worker exploitation and illegal activity, such as human trafficking, modern slavery, forced labour, and other labour market offences. The Government is also delivering the legislation for a new flagship Fair Work Agency, ensuring fair and strong employment rights for all.

In relation to the exploitation of international recruits, £16 million has been provided to regional partnerships this financial year to support them to prevent and respond to unethical practices. The Home Office has also recently announced measures to ban rogue employers from sponsoring overseas workers.