High morale and strong sense of purpose sustain social care workforce in Wales, but retention challenges remain

Workforce retention risks remain an issue for social care in Wales, according to a report.

Academics at Cardiff University carried out the 2026 Have Your Say survey, supported by Care Forum Wales and on behalf of Social Care Wales.

In total, 7,565 social care workers from a range of roles responded to the survey – nearly 2,000 more than last year.

As in previous years, the study shows most people who work in social care do it because they want to make a difference to people’s lives. This was closely followed by respondents who said they felt it would be a role they would love or enjoy.

Morale continues to be high (67%); many respondents described their relationships with colleagues as a positive aspect of their work, and reported feeling valued in supportive teams with a shared sense of purpose.

Despite most choosing to work in social care to help others, workforce retention continues to be a risk. A quarter of respondents said they were considering leaving the sector, and some (16%) expect to leave in less than 12 months.

However, around four in ten workers (39%) were planning to remain in the sector until retirement, and a further 11 per cent could see themselves staying for more than 10 years.

Professor Paul Willis, based at the University’s Centre for Adult Social Care Research (CARE), said: “In the first year Cardiff University has delivered this survey, we are delighted with the high response from people working across the Welsh sector.”

Dr Katy Huxley, based at the University’s Social Science Research Park (SPARK), said: “The survey results indicate that social care workers are dedicated to supporting others but also indicate that there are pressures caused by workload and staffing issues, particularly within social work. Social Care Wales are already using the results to inform their work and support.”

The results of the survey show progression ambitions within the social care workforce were positive. Thirty-nine per cent of respondents wanted a leadership role in the future, and just over half believed it would be possible for them to become a leader (51%).

Pay is still a concern. Twenty-four per cent said they were finding it difficult to manage financially, and over half (52%) said they found it more difficult to manage financially than last year.

Sarah McCarty, Chief Executive of Social Care Wales said: “The results of this survey once again demonstrate the commitment of the social care workforce in Wales to making a difference to people’s lives. And it’s great to see that the majority of people still feel supported and valued by their colleagues and managers.

“We’ll use the findings of the survey to guide the support and services we offer, as well as influencing the work of partner organisations to make sure the voice of the workforce is heard.”

To view the full report, click here.

Register for Social Care Wales’ online launch event on the 15th October here.

Register to hear more about recruitment and retention in social care on the 17^th November here.