Many health and social care workers have no choice but to drive when visiting patients, vulnerable adults, children, and families. Unlike many other professions, they cannot work from home or decline travel. Yet they are reimbursed at the same outdated business mileage rate of 45p as set in 2011.

Social workers, health visitors, community nurses, and care workers routinely drive thousands of miles per year. Unlike some other workers who claim occasional mileage, these professionals are essential car users whose jobs often cannot be done without travel. The 45p rate has not changed since 2011 despite rising fuel, insurance, and vehicle costs. In our view, low reimbursement is a known factor in recruitment and retention problems. We ask the Government to introduce a higher rate for essential car users in health and social care.