Written question asked by Lord Bradley (Labour) on Tuesday, 6 January 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 20 January 2026. It was answered by Baroness Merron (Labour) on Thursday, 29 January 2026 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.

Health Services and Social Services: Staff

Question: To ask His Majesty's Government when they will publish (1) the NHS workforce plan, and (2) the social care workforce plan.

Answer

The Government will publish the 10 Year Workforce Plan in spring 2026.

This plan will set out action to create an NHS workforce able to deliver the transformed service set out in the 10-Year Health Plan. It is important we do this in a robust and joined up way. We are therefore engaging extensively with partners to ensure this plan delivers for staff and patients.

Decisions regarding any potential publication for social care remain under consideration and no final position has been reached.

The Department is supporting the Adult Social Care workforce by improving terms and conditions through introducing a new Fair Pay Agreement, and supporting career development and progression by implementing the first ever career structure and investing up to £12 million in training and qualifications.

Baroness Casey’s independent commission into adult social care is underway as part of our critical first steps towards delivering a National Care Service. The Terms of Reference have been designed to be sufficiently broad to enable Baroness Casey to independently consider how to build a social care system, and workforce, fit for the future.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: HL13286
Session: 2024-26
Related items: Deposited Paper DEP2025-0460
Monday, 7 July 2025
Deposited papers
House of Lords
Subjects: Staff Health services NHS Social services
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk

Health Services and Social Services: Staff

Secondary information

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