Research briefing launch event [online]: Successfully engaging paid care workers in organising: Challenges, opportunities, and what works

This online event will introduce a new research briefing and generate discussion of organising and union activity among paid adult social care (ASC) workers and those who represent their interests.

Featuring: Dr Duncan U Fisher, Professor Liam Foster  (both University of Sheffield) and invited speakers – see description below for details.

18th September 2025

12pm to 1pm

via Zoom: link will be shared with registered attendees

 

About

In England, paid work in ASC remains among the most poorly rewarded in the labour market and there is a persistent labour shortage, as well as problems with high turnover and insecurity. At a time when improvements to the situation of ASC workers in England remain some way off, we investigated what paid ASC workers and those representing their interests do to drive positive change. Forty-one participants were interviewed across different organisations, including trade unions, community organisations, and campaign groups, examining barriers to organising and how they may be overcome. The briefing covers these points and proposes recommendations for successfully engaging paid care workers in organising.

The event will include the following:

  • An overview of the key messages from the briefing by authors Dr Duncan U Fisher and Professor Liam Foster, both from the Centre for Care at The University of Sheffield
  • Responses from three speakers:

Amaka Molokwu, paid care worker. Member of Homecare Voices’ Advisory Board and Care Workers’ Charity Advisory Board and Care Worker Champion Project

Kevin Lucas, Head of National Strategic Organising Unit at UNISON trade union. Kevin leads implementation of UNISON’s “Organising to Win” strategy, with a particular focus on social care

An academic with relevant knowledge and expertise

  • A Q and A session where attendees can ask the authors and panel about the briefing and relevant issues

We look forward to seeing you.

Please contact us with any questions: centreforcare@sheffield.ac.uk

Image and information source Centre for Care