Adult social care workers in Cornwall are operating at or beyond sustainable capacity, according to a new report from Healthwatch Cornwall.
The report, which draws on feedback from 175 care workers, 25 providers and managers, alongside interviews, focus groups and Enter & View evidence, finds a workforce that is deeply committed but increasingly strained.
Staff shortages, long hours and emotional pressure are common features of the working environment, while rising care complexity is outpacing available time, training and resources.
Cornwall's geography, high housing costs and reduced access to international recruitment add further pressure. One respondent said they anticipated burning out within 12 months.
Healthwatch Cornwall CEO Debbie Gilbert noted a striking consistency of themes across all engagement methods despite survey responses representing around 1.25% of the county's adult social care workforce.
The report calls on commissioners and providers to address the structural causes of burnout and align workforce planning with increasingly complex care needs.
.png)
