CARE HOME WARNING OVER VISA SITUATION

CARE homes in North Wales could be forced to turn away elderly people with dementia unless ministers act to “fix the visa” for overseas staff.

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In a stark warning ahead of the May 7 Senedd election, Care Forum Wales (CFW) says tightening immigration rules and the closure of visa routes are choking off a vital lifeline for the sector. According to CFW, which represents more than 400 private and third sector care providers, the crisis is deepening because Wales has an ageing population and a shrinking working-age workforce. The organisation's election manifesto points out that international recruitment is no longer optional but essential to keep services running, particularly in rural communities.