IPC undertook an analysis of businesses and skills within the care sector in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly (CIoS) for the Cornwall Development Company (CDC).
The analysis, conducted between September 2014 and January 2015, sought to understand current and future demand and the availability of services in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly and to examine the market opportunities afforded by an ageing population over the next 20 years. It considered the skills and support requirements of the Care Sector, both current and future.
The analysis included a desk based review of policy, guidance, practice, data and market information – both locally and nationally, an online survey of providers in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, telephone interviews with providers and telephone interviews with sector stakeholders including commissioners and FE colleges.
The research sought to take account of the challenges the care sector faces, including new requirements in the Care Act and growing demand for services among many groups and the particular demographic pressures which are expected in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, most notably a significant growth expected in older people aged 80 and above.
Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly also face challenges through the county being a large rural area with poor transport links, a fact which affects the availability of care staff in many areas and their ability to study for qualifications.
