Ending extraction in the UK care system report

Public money is leaking out of the UK’s care system – but it doesn’t have to be this way….

A new report from the UK, Ending extraction in the UK care system, shows that over £250 million in profits was extracted from care contracts in just three English regions – with huge sums flowing to private equity and companies based in tax havens. And while care workers are paid below the living wage, directors are earning up to 60 times the average salary.

Co-operatives UK says “It’s easy to highlight issues and point fingers. But our work isn’t just about exposing the problem – it’s about finding and pointing to solutions.

“So let’s look at our member Equal Care Co-op, a platform-based social care co-operative in Calder Valley, West Yorkshire (and featured in the report). Co-owned by care workers and the people receiving support, it’s a radically different model – one based on relationships, respect, and shared ownership.

“It’s people-centred care… a much more holistic and meaningful way of working.” Henry, care worker

“We set out to rebalance the power dynamic.” – Emma, co-founder

With the right support and policy, co-operatives like Equal Care can grow – and show how care can be delivered ethically, locally and effectively.”

The unique research is a part of the Reclaiming Our Regional Economies (RORE) program, a five-year initiative led by the Centre for Local Economic Strategies, Centre for Thriving Places, Co-operatives UK and the New Economics Foundation.

The programme supports practical economic reform in UK regions – helping to build economies that deliver good lives now and for generations to come.

Read and share the report’s main findings

Read the report