On 30 September 2025, the Government announced a £500 million investment to establish the first ever Fair Pay Agreement (FPA) for adult social care workers in England.
This marks a major step forward in improving pay, terms and conditions across the sector.
The FPA will be developed by a new statutory Adult Social Care Negotiating Body, bringing together employers and trade unions. Once implemented, it will create a national, legally-binding framework for workforce pay and conditions.
Key Points
-
£500 million confirmed to support development of the first FPA
-
Negotiating body to be established by regulation in 2026
-
First Agreement expected to take effect in 2028
-
Underpinned by the Employment Rights Bill, giving legal effect to negotiated pay and conditions
-
Delivered alongside wider reforms, including a universal career structure and greater investment in training and qualifications
Consultation – Have Your Say
The Department of Health and Social Care has launched an open consultation on how the FPA process should operate.
This is a critical opportunity for providers to share views on what the Agreement should include and how it should be implemented.
👉 Access the consultation and supporting documents
Deadline for Responses
The consultation closes on 16 January 2026.
SESCA urges all providers to submit a response to ensure the voice of the South East care sector is fully represented.