Care worker denied meeting with Home Secretary, sparking outcry

The meeting, initially rescheduled twice, was set for October 21st and intended to be the first between Mahmood and Unison’s General Secretary Andrea Egan. Egan planned to attend with a policy officer, alongside Kolade. However, just two hours before the meeting, Mahmood’s office informed Unison that Kolade would not be permitted to attend, citing an assessment that his presence would be “inappropriate.”

Kolade expressed deep disappointment, stating, “It was a feeling of humiliation… I cried because I felt like someone saw me less to be in the same room with her.” Egan criticized the decision, emphasizing the importance of hearing directly from workers. “Kolade is a dedicated care worker and an inspirational campaigner… The government should be celebrating these brilliant people.”

A government spokesperson defended the decision, stating that over 200,000 responses to the consultation on earned settlement are being considered, and prioritizing a single individual would have been inappropriate. They added that the Home Secretary had hoped the meeting would proceed despite the cancellation.

The incident occurs amidst pressure on Mahmood to reconsider proposals that would extend the waiting period for migrant care workers to qualify for indefinite leave to remain from five to 15 years. This change would disproportionately affect lower-paid occupations, including social care.

Kolade believes the incident underscores a lack of understanding regarding the contributions of migrant workers. He was prepared to convey that they are not a burden on the economy but rather vital contributors to British families. He shared that his commitment to care work stems from the loss of his father, and he approaches each patient with the same level of care he would have given his father.

Kolade refuted concerns that migrant workers are simply seeking residency before leaving the sector, highlighting their investment in qualifications and career development within the social care industry. He noted that one colleague recently achieved a distinction in their NVQ 4 qualification. He warned that the proposed policy changes could lead experienced workers to seek opportunities in countries like Ireland, Canada, and Australia.

Kolade, who moved to Britain in 2022 with his wife and two children, expressed concern about the uncertainty facing his family, with one of his children questioning whether they will have to return to Nigeria. Despite the setback, Kolade remains committed to Unison’s campaign for a five-year route to settlement, sector-wide visas, and fair pay.