Following recent changes to the immigration rules and the closure of overseas recruitment for care and senior care workers, two new documents have been uploaded to the IR Hub:

• Immigration White Paper (IWP) – October 2025: Key Immigration Rule Changes – a summary of the key policy changes and timelines, including details of the upcoming Home Office Town Hall events.
• Adult Social Care (ASC) Q&A – July 2025: A detailed set of responses from the Home Office to questions raised by providers, including information on displaced workers, sponsorship, and transitional arrangements.

As a programme, one of our priorities is to help care providers in the West Midlands recruit from the existing pool of displaced international care workers already in the UK. These individuals bring valuable experience and are often keen to continue working in care. We would encourage providers to consider this group when recruiting to help maintain stability and continuity across the sector.

English Language Requirements

From 8th January 2026, new applicants to the Skilled Worker route will need to meet the B2 English level. However, this does not apply to care workers already in the UK who are extending their existing Skilled Worker visas. They can continue at the current B1 level and do not need to take a new English test to stay in the UK or renew their visa.

English Language Support

While the new requirement only affects new overseas applicants, we recognise that improving English can support both professional development and integration. Some available support includes:

• Local ESOL Courses (English for Speakers of Other Languages) www.esolcourses.com

Many community centres, colleges, and local authorities offer free or subsidised ESOL courses to help improve English for work and everyday life.

• LearnEnglish by the British Council www.learnenglish.britishcouncil.org

​Free online grammar, vocabulary, and speaking practice at your own pace.

• Refugee Action www.refugee-action.org.uk/what-we-do/integration/learn-english

Connects migrants and refugees with free English classes and local learning opportunities.