South West Hub Redeployment Process Changes
We are writing to inform you of significant changes to the UK immigration rules, which come into effect on 22 July 2025, as part of the government’s wider reforms aimed at restoring order and control to the immigration system. Major immigration reforms delivered to restore order and control – GOV.UK
As of this date, the route for recruiting workers from overseas will officially close. Consequently, the previous requirement from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) for providers to first attempt recruitment from the redeployment pool has now ended.
Despite this change, providers are still strongly encouraged to utilise their regional hubs to recruit from the existing pool of redeployed workers. With international recruitment routes no longer available, providers are expected to focus on both the domestic candidates and those international workers already residing in the UK, who are seeking to change or secure new sponsorship.
We ask that you continue to liaise with your regional hub to access this valuable pool of candidates.
For providers in the South West, your regional hub contact is: commissioning.swadass@swcouncils.gov.uk
In response to these changes, the South West Hub has streamlined the redeployment process to give both providers and workers greater autonomy and control, while also reducing the time it takes to match candidates with vacancies. We recognise that provider job vacancies are often time-sensitive, and this updated approach is designed to support faster, more efficient recruitment.
From Monday 21 July 2025, when you email the hub mailbox, you will receive an automated reply containing a link to a Microsoft Form.
- Providers will be asked to complete one of 15 forms, each corresponding to a specific Local Authority area.
- Please ensure you select the form that matches the location of your vacancy.
- The information you submit will automatically feed into a live ‘Jobs Base’ spreadsheet, which is shared with workers from the relevant local redeployment pool.
This live Jobs Base allows workers to view up-to-date vacancies in their area and apply directly.
Workers may contact you directly regarding roles and it remains the provider’s responsibility to assess candidates. All workers in the redeployment pool will continue to have a worker reference number, please ask them to quote their reference numbers when contacting you
Take a look at the Worker Redeployment Pool Process flow chart for more information.
If you need support with the displaced care worker process please contact the Devon Alliance team devonalliance@nhs.net
ASC changes to the Skilled Worker Route update 09 April 2025 – Information from the Home Office, New requirements and support for care workers and senior care workers based entirely in England.
ASC Q&A responses to 09 April update– Information from the Home Office.
Support for international recruitment
We have a range of support and training available to support you with the changes and updates around international recruitment.
Join Our Monthly Drop-In Session with International Recruitment specialist Lisa Mulholland
Are you seeking expert advice on international recruits? Do you have specific questions about visa renewals, compliance, or employing displaced workers? Look no further! Every month, you have the unique opportunity to get your questions answered by International Recruitment specialist Lisa Mulholland from Stephens Scown Solicitors. Come along to the next drop in, save the zoom links and join us every month from 10.00am till 11.00am.
Highlights from August session
Thank you to all the local providers who attended today’s drop-in session. A wide range of important questions were raised, reflecting the growing concerns around workforce sustainability and immigration policy. Key topics included:
- Domestic Workforce Planning for 2028: Providers expressed concern about the anticipated shift towards a predominantly domestic workforce. Questions were raised about how vacancies will be backfilled once international recruits are required to leave.
- Future of Charity Workers on Skilled Worker Visas: There is uncertainty around whether charity sector employees will continue to be eligible to switch to Skilled Worker visas under future immigration rules.
- Visa Changes Without Notification: Some attendees reported instances where visa conditions were altered without prior notice. This raises serious concerns about transparency and communication from the Home Office.
- Hospitals and International Workforce Management: With a significant proportion of staff recruited internationally, providers are seeking clarity on how NHS trusts and other healthcare organisations are planning for long-term workforce stability.
- Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) Eligibility Post-2028: Questions were raised about whether staff recruited internationally will be eligible to apply for ILR after 2028, and what criteria will apply.
- New Care Worker Rule – Effective 22 July: Providers are reminded that care workers no longer need to go through the displaced worker pool. Please refer to the latest Home Office guidance for full details. Note: All guidance is subject to change and ongoing review.
- Pay and Breaks Compliance: Employers must ensure that care workers are paid the minimum hourly rate of £12.82 for a 37.5-hour week, including paid breaks. Non-compliance may result in enforcement action.
- Right to Work Checks: It is essential that providers conduct thorough right to work checks and maintain robust evidence. Failure to do so could result in penalties and reputational damage.
A recurring theme throughout the session was the risk of the UK becoming less attractive to highly skilled international workers due to increasing regulatory complexity and uncertainty.
Devon Alliance team
Devon Alliance for International Recruitment: a not-for-profit team working collaboratively across the Health & Social Care Sector to recruit overseas health professionals.
What they do:
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- Recruitment Services: Support international care workers already in the UK, to find ongoing sponsorship in the sector.
- Collaborate with Providers: Matching recruits with the right positions in local social care services.
- Comprehensive Support for providers and carers: From visas and relocation to accommodation and integration, and end to end pastoral support.
- Training and Development: Ensuring smooth transitions with language training, cultural orientation, and professional development.
- Maintain Compliance: Upholding UK regulations and ethical recruitment standards. Retention Strategies: Focusing on job satisfaction and career growth.
Contact the team today! devonalliance@nhs.net
Migrant Social Integration
Migrant Social Integration has been formed by Plymouth Hope to provide training to Social Care providers in Devon. Book your place via Eventbrite for upcoming training sessions.
Drop in sessions
Drop in sessions every week to support you with advice, signposting and pastoral support.
- Our Main Support Services: Pastoral Care: If you’re facing challenges in your workplace or require support involving any government agencies (e.g social services) , we’re here to work with providers to help recruits. If international recruits have practical questions about immigration changes or to do with their COS, we are here to listen and guide recruits to find a solution
- Employment Support: We initially refer individuals to the Devon Alliance. Additionally, we offer one-to-one confidence-building support and organise group sessions for job seekers to share experiences and learn from one another. This is a safe space for recruits to ask any questions.
- Diversity & Cultural Competence Support for Providers: Adapting to change and creating an inclusive workplace for international recruits can be challenging. We offer confidential support to help providers navigate any issues or any challenges with international recruits or to assist in implementing relevant policies. Email us: tania@plymouthhope.org.uk
Podcast Episodes for Social Care Providers!
We’re thrilled to announce a brand-new collection of episodes designed to support social care providers navigating the complex world of international recruitment compliance. The information shared in these episodes is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of 16th January 2025. However, we strongly encourage you to carry out your own due diligence to stay fully compliant. A huge thank you to Lisa Mulholland from Stephen Scowns Solicitors for sharing her invaluable expertise and insights!