DGB Saxony demands change of course in care policy

The German Trade Union Confederation (DGB) Saxony has called for a change of course in care policy. "The challenges and pressing problems in the care sector must be tackled decisively and must no longer be put off to the detriment of sick people, people in need of care and employees," explained Daniela Kolbe, Vice President of the DGB Saxony.

Instead of continuing to postpone the issue, a viable concept must be developed quickly in order to relieve the burden on employees and stabilize the financing of care in the long term, said Kolbe. For Saxony in particular, there was a risk of dramatic consequences if comprehensive and fair countermeasures were not taken. The Free State would be the oldest federal state in demographic terms by 2030.

Saxony soon to be the federal state with the oldest population

According to the latest figures from the State Statistical Office, there were 363,243 people in need of care in the Free State of Saxony in 2023. The number increased by 52,569 people in need of care from 2021 to 2023.

"We don't need lip service, but a bold care policy in the interests of the people. The focus must be on solidarity-based funding and better working conditions. Nursing stands or falls on whether people decide to stay in the nursing profession," emphasized Kolbe. The workload is still very high, and work is becoming more and more concentrated at the expense of employees.

"A stop must be put to this, also because otherwise employees will vote with their feet. We are calling for binding, needs-based staffing targets in hospitals and geriatric care," explained Kolbe. Pay and working conditions must be significantly improved by strengthening collective bargaining in all care areas.