Findings from the most recent  CareLineLive State of Home Care Report show that transport costs and access to a vehicle are now central obstacles to recruiting and retaining carers across the country.

The survey, of 108 home care providers across the UK, finds that 57% identify the inability to drive as a significant recruitment and retention barrier - outpacing traditional factors such as low wages or antisocial hours.

This is the second year in a row that the inability to drive has been identified as the top barrier to recruitment.

Josh Hough, chief executive of CareLineLive, said: ‘It is a simple reality that a lot of carers need to drive to see clients. But while most people can drive, the cost of owning and running a car has become increasingly expensive.

‘For many people who could potentially be interested in working in care, it's simply not worth it.'

He added: ‘Without targeted support for travel and transport costs, firms will continue to struggle to fill roles - and that directly impacts the quality and consistency of care for people living at home.'

The CareLineLive State of Home Care Survey underscored how structural issues, such as transport and transport costs, can outweigh pay in recruitment decisions – especially in more rural areas where public transport is sparse.