"I couldn’t survive on less than a living wage and it’s wrong that some care workers locally are treated so badly.”

Salford’s largest care provider undertook a commitment to provide a high quality service by signing up to UNISON’s Ethical Care Charter.  Aspire will ensure that staff are paid more than the living wage (currently £7.85/hour), that that they will not use 15 minute visits and that staff will be trained to a high standard. 

Speaking at the signing, UNISON Branch Secretary Steve North said: 

“It’s really positive that Aspire have agreed to undertake this commitment and this will be welcomed by our members providing care services.  Social care work is undervalued in our society and it is wrong that Government cuts to council budgets are hurting vulnerable people and low-paid workers.    

“We hope that Salford Council itself will soon sign up to the Charter so that we can help ensure that both service users and care workers have the dignity and security they deserve.” 

Janet Tuohy, Aspire CEO explained why she felt signing up to the Charter was important: 

“Social Care has long been undervalued as a profession. We aim to ensure our staff are supervised and trained to the industry standards to ensure they can give the best quality care and support to the people who use Aspire’s services. Without their hard work and commitment Aspire could not support over 800 vulnerable people a week. 

“Our staff are our most valuable asset.  It’s important that they receive a living wage and that their professionalism is valued.”

Trish Smallman, a care worker for Aspire said:

“I think it’s great that Aspire have signed up to UNISON’s Ethical Care Charter.  Aspire are trying to look after service users and staff as best they can in difficult circumstances.  I couldn’t survive on less than a living wage and it’s wrong that some care workers locally are treated so badly.”