THIS week, September 1-4, marks Professional Care Workers Week.

It feels very timely to have a week dedicated to recognising the efforts of care workers and acknowledging the extraordinary work they do.  

Care and support workers have a challenging and rewarding job that is different every day and over the past months, in the face of Covid-19, they have shown how exceptional they are.

Together we clapped for our NHS, and our carers were included in that outpouring of public gratitude.

Our research shows that three quarters (74 per cent) of adults in England believe care home staff do a brilliant job.

They also overwhelmingly agree they are undervalued (81 per cent) and should be paid better (80 per cent ). It’s great to see society recognise them for their invaluable contribution – it’s time that government does too, and that they are rewarded adequately.

VIC RAYNER 

Executive director, National Care Forum   Manor House Drive, Coventry