The Homecare Association has responded to the Low Pay Commission's consultation on National Living Wage rates from April 2024.
As in previous years, we remain extremely concerned that the proposed NLW increases for next year, following the significant increase in the NLW this year, will impact the financial viability of the sector, unless the Government commits several billion pounds to cover the cost of this increase and ring-fences funds for that purpose (as opposed to, for example, general funds to meet increased demand for care).
We continue to urge the Government and Devolved governments to deliver sustainable funding arrangements for the adult social care sector across the UK.
The Low Pay Commission asked for views on a possible National Living Wage increase in April 2024 from the current level of £10.42 per hour to a rate of between £10.90 and £11.43, with a central estimate of £11.16 per hour, among other proposed recommendations to government. Any rise in National Living Wage would have to be approved by Government, usually in the Autumn Budget.
