The social care workforce is predominantly female, estimated to constitute at least 80% of the workforce. Societal stereotypes of what is considered to be suitable work and also the low pay structure in the sector are seen as key deterrents for men. According to workforce figures of social services departments in England, domiciliary care has the highest percentage of women (96%), whereas most men can be found as part of central/strategic/head quarter staff (27%) and day care staff (25%).

Women also dominate among the higher skilled workforce, as they account for 76% of social workers and 80% of occupational therapists. Furthermore, they constitute by far the majority of managers and team leaders in many direct care areas, suggesting that the care sector offers better career opportunities for women than in parts of the economy. However, when seniority within in each occupational group is taken into account, more men than women had achieved a senior post.

A longitudinal study among social services staff concluded that, the number of full-time years in social care, the number of jobs in social care and educational level were most relevant in achieving a senior position, which, they stress, indirectly discriminates against women having to balance family and work.

Source: Department of Health 2004 and Ginn and Fisher 1999

For more information on gender and employment status of employees in the sector see:

Employment levels in health and social work by gender and status, 2002-2012