The Care Workforce Pathway as a roadmap for development and progression

Rob Newby, our Head of National Workforce Development, Capability & Skills, talks about the Care Workforce Pathway and what it means to care providers and the workforce.

The introduction of the Care Workforce Pathway offers a significant step forward in shaping career development and learning opportunities for care staff. Designed to provide clarity, structure, and professional growth opportunities, the Pathway was commissioned by the Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC) and aims to ensure that those who work in care can see a clear route for progression.

But what does this pathway mean in real life? How does it work, and how does it influence learning and development (L&D) within the sector? More importantly, how can this new framework drive improved care?

The part of the Care Workforce Pathway was published in 2024 after extensive consultation with the workforce and seeks to address several long-standing gaps in the social care sector. Prior to its introduction, the lack of one overarching clear career framework meant that many care workers struggled to map out their professional development. The pathway is a response to this need, identifying key role categories across the workforce, from entry-level roles to leadership, and outlining the skills, knowledge, behaviours and values expected of those looking to progress at each stage.

The four initial role categories that have been published are:

• New to Care
• Care or Support Worker
• Supervisor or leader
• Practice Leader

Each role category provides a roadmap for career development, with plans for additional categories as the pathway expands.

In real terms, the pathway serves as a guide for care workers at all stages of their careers. For someone entering the sector, the pathway provides a clear entry point, helping them understand the foundational skills and knowledge they’ll need to perform their job well. For those further along in their career, it shows how they can expand their skill set, move into supervisory roles, or even specialise in areas like dementia care.

For care workers, the pathway encourages ongoing development. It’s not just about getting qualifications, but about broadening knowledge and skills that translate directly into better care outcomes. At each stage, workers can engage in learning and development (L&D) opportunities that align with the specific needs of their role. For example, a care worker might focus on learning more about person-centred care or managing complex care needs, while someone moving into a leadership role may focus on managing teams and improving service delivery.

What’s more, the pathway links directly with practical L&D opportunities, ensuring that workers and employers alike are selecting the most relevant and impactful training and qualifications. One recent example of this is the inclusion of the new Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate Qualification as a new foundation to further learning and development.

For social care providers, the Care Workforce Pathway is a game-changer for L&D. It removes some of the confusion that employers often face when deciding which training programmes to invest in. It also helps workers and managers make informed decisions about their personal and professional development.

The Pathway provides a clearer framework to design schedules of learning that support career progression at every level. Whether it's formal qualifications or continuing professional development (CPD) opportunities, L&D teams can better tailor their programmes to meet the evolving needs of their workforce. Additionally, the introduction of role-specific categories makes it easier to identify areas where further training is required, supporting both individual and organisational growth.

The Pathway currently has around 30 providers engaged in an early adopter’s programme, including both large and smaller organisations across different regions. These providers have been testing the role categories developed for the pathway and mapping these categories into their current job structures, exploring how to implement the pathway, and identifying potential areas for realignment. Although still in the early stages, the programme has already seen positive developments, such as the introduction of career conversations, which have been valued by both care workers and managers.

The Workforce Strategy, which launched in July 2024, called for continued support of the Care Workforce Pathway, which we’re hopeful will mean ongoing awareness as it evolves. New categories of roles will be added, addressing the diverse needs of the sector, while also ensuring that workers who don’t wish to move into management roles still have the opportunity to grow and specialise. This focus on sideways career development is as important as upward mobility as there are many ways in which care workers can develop within the sector.

Ultimately, the Care Workforce Pathway’s goal is to drive better care outcomes. By focusing on developing the right skills and knowledge across the workforce, the pathway directly contributes to higher-quality, person-centred care. A well-trained and well-supported workforce is better equipped to meet the complex needs of those requiring care and support, ensuring that care is delivered safely, effectively, and with dignity.

As we look ahead, the Care Workforce Pathway will continue to evolve, adapting to the changing needs of the sector and responding to feedback from those who use it. This ongoing refinement process means that the pathway will remain a relevant and powerful tool for care workers, L&D professionals, and employers alike.

For care workers, it offers the chance to embark on a rewarding career with clear progression and development opportunities. For employers, it provides a structured way to plan and invest in workforce development. And for those receiving care, it promises better-trained, more knowledgeable professionals, ultimately improving the care experience and outcomes for all.

Visit our ‘Learning and development matters’ landing page to find out more.

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