The UK Government has announced a temporary halt to demands for backpay for sleep-in shifts following pressure from the care sector and warnings payments could force providers out of business.
On July 26 it said it would “temporarily suspend enforcement activity over backpay for sleep-in shifts and will also waive historic financial penalties against employers over sleep-in shift pay in the social care sector”.
Care Forum Wales’ legal adviser Alison Castrey has issued advice for members – read the guidance document and legal advice here.
Melanie Minty, Care Forum Wales’ policy advisor, said: “Care Forum Wales, along with other social care representatives, has been actively pressing for action on this via the National Provider Forum.
“This is a complex issue because it affects providers in Wales although the national minimum wage, and backpay, is non-devolved.
“Additionally, the UK government is talking about extra funding for social care providers raised through council tax but this only applies in England and does not apply in Wales.
“We can give members an overview of the issue but as the stakes are so high if you are concerned you should take independent legal advice.”