More than 10,000 social services staff members in Wales have not achieved the ‘required or recommended’ level of training.
Only 60% of those working in the sector are classed as ‘qualified’ in the Welsh government’s own statistics database.
In Swansea and Newport, the figure is less than 50%.
Excluding Cardiff (for which there is limited data), there are 25,262 social services staff across Wales.
Welsh Conservatives have highlighted the figures and called for Ministers to redouble their efforts in the area.
Shadow Minister for Health and Social Services, Darren Millar AM (pictured), said, “According to these figures, 40% of Welsh social services staff cannot be classed as ‘qualified’.
“That’s a very startling statistic and will inevitably provide cause for concern.
“While there is no reason to doubt the hard work of staff, ‘required and recommended’ levels of training are there for a reason. It’s hard to believe that over 10,000 people are operating in this area without it.
“The Welsh Labour government has previously admitted staff training must improve, yet this worrying situation remains.
“The obvious disparity between areas also needs to be addressed. If almost 90% of Wrexham’s staff members are ‘qualified’, why are only 46% of Swansea’s? Lessons should be learned from more successful local authorities and good practice shared.
“With demand on social services rising, this issue is going to be particularly important over the years ahead. I want to hear exactly how the Health Minister intends to make progress in this area, and if and when she’ll be redoubling her efforts.”
