Care Workforce At “Breaking Point” As Visa Changes Threaten Staffing

UNISON has warned that government plans to extend the wait for settlement rights from 5 to 15 years could worsen staff shortages in social care by driving overseas workers away. The changes build on earlier 2025 visa restrictions that already reduced international recruitment.

The union argues that applying the longer settlement period to workers already in the UK is unfair and risks increasing exploitation, as staff become more dependent on employers.

UNISON is calling on MPs across the South East to oppose government proposals to extend the qualifying period for settlement and support plans for migrant care staff to move more easily between employers.

‘Migration does not weaken the NHS, migration is the reason it survives’

Migrant workers’ rights and protections were a central focus at UNISON’s national health conference in Edinburgh, where delegates overwhelmingly backed motions caling for stronger support across the NHS. Speakers emphasised that migrant staff—who make up nearly one in five NHS workers and a large share of newly registered nurses—are essential to keeping services running.

Conference discussions highlighted the significant economic contribution of internationa ly trained staff, estimated to save the NHS around £14 bilion in training costs.

Key motions urged the government and NHS to safeguard migrant workers from visa-related insecurity, including proposed salary threshold changes, and to ensure staff are not left unsupported when visas expire. Delegates also caled for the creation of a UNISON NHS Migrant Workers Charter, promoting fair treatment, ethical recruitment, equal pay, safe working conditions, and career progression.

Supporting the motion on behalf of North Devon and Exeter health branch, Emmanuel Akinlose (pictured above) said: “Migrant workers are not a backup plan or a temporary fix, we are part of the foundation of this health service. Yet despite this, many of us continue to work under pressure.”