The Welsh Government has pledged to legislate to tackle the issue of zero-hours contracts in the care sector. There are currently around 11,000 domiciliary care workers in Wales on zero-hours contracts, the majority of whom are employed in the independent sector.

The government will shortly begin a period of consultation on plans to ensure that care providers offer all workers the option of a minimum-hours contract after a three-month probationary period based on the average weekly hours worked during this period.

Rebecca Evans, Minister for Social Services and Public Health, said: “Giving care workers the choice of ditching zero-hours contracts will help improve the quality and continuity of social care in Wales and give care workers the fair deal they deserve.

“We are committed to building a prosperous and balanced economy that delivers social justice and opportunity for all the people of Wales, as well as providing the best possible care for those who need it.”