Support needed for low-paid staff to switch to greener transport

Care workers must be supported with free e-bikes, discounted bus travel and access to car sharing schemes to encourage the shift to green transport, says the Campaign for Better Transport.

Its Greening social care report, backed by UNISON, found that over a third of domiciliary staff drive more than 400 miles a month, and nearly three-quarters use petrol or diesel cars for home visits.

Just 2% of respondents own a hybrid or EV, and only one in 10 uses public transport — citing unreliability and poor coverage.

Fuel costs were a major concern, with 51% of home care workers spending more than £100 monthly, compared to a quarter of all care staff.

The report calls for employers to optimise route planning and rethink care visit allocation to reduce emissions, cut fuel costs and improve care efficiency.

“Home care workers provide a vital service,” said UNISON’s Gavin Edwards. “They mustn’t be left behind as the public sector moves towards greener working practices.”