New data reveals a worrying trend in the care sector, with the total number of jobseekers declining.
Analysis of data from Indeed’s Hiring Lab by Caredemy, which provides professional caregiver training and job placement services, reveals that since January 2025, the number of job seekers has dropped by 15.9%, while the number of applicants per role has fallen by 10.9%.
Caredemy says this decline reflects a deeper issue. A spokesperson for the training provider said: “Care work is no longer seen as an appealing career choice. At the heart of the problem is a lack of recognition. Even though care workers play a vital role in supporting vulnerable people every day, many feel their efforts go unnoticed.
“The work requires patience, skill, and compassion, but it is generally undervalued compared to other professions.
There is also a common misunderstanding about what the role involves. Care work is not just about basic support. It requires proper training, ongoing learning, and the ability to handle complex situations. Workers are responsible for people’s wellbeing, safety, and dignity, which comes with a high level of responsibility.
“On top of this, workers are on their feet for quite a few hours, dealing with quite a few physically demanding tasks. Emotionally, the role can be just as challenging. Supporting people through illness, ageing, and end-of-life care can be deeply rewarding, but it can also be pretty draining.
“Not to mention, the wider care system is already under pressure. Many care providers are struggling to stay afloat, with over a third of new care businesses closing before they even reach the five-year mark. Rising costs, staffing shortages, and tight margins are making it harder for organisations to keep costs down and their doors open. With fewer workers entering the sector, this increases the pressure on those already in it, leading to burnout, higher staff turnover, and even more vacancies.
“In the past few years, the UK has become increasingly reliant on overseas workers to fill these gaps. While this helps in the short term, unemployment is reaching record highs. To turn things around, the care sector needs to focus on not only attracting new workers, but also keeping the ones it already has.
“There needs to be better recognition of the role, but this doesn’t just mean more public appreciation. Carers need fair pay, clearer career progression, and proper support for workers on the job. Training is also crucial. Giving workers the right skills can improve accessibility, confidence and job satisfaction.
“When it comes down to it, care workers are essential to our communities. They support some of the most vulnerable people in society and help them live with dignity and independence. If the sector is to recover, we need to start valuing the people at its core.”
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