IMMEDIATE RELEASE
“We remain seriously concerned about the deeply troubling reality facing homecare providers. Mel Williams, the President of ADASS, is right when she says the government’s Budget decisions are insurmountable for some providers. This perfect storm of council underfunding and increased employment costs are forcing providers to make impossible choices. We know that nearly 60% of providers will need to hand back existing contracts to deliver vital public services. Just over 20% closing their business entirely.
“The government's rhetoric about ‘home first’ and improving care workers’ conditions rings hollow when only 1% of councils can pay sustainable rates for homecare. On top of the additional £1.8 billion ADASS is estimating Budget measures will cost the sector, we already face a £1.08 billion funding deficit in homecare alone.
“These additional pressures will make it impossible for many providers to maintain quality services while meeting their statutory obligations. This risks harm to individuals; higher demand for GP and other primary care services; an increase in NHS waiting lists; greater pressure on councils; and devastation of an already fragile homecare sector.
“The government must act now. We join ADASS in urging them to support the sector. We call on the government to exempt homecare providers from the NICs changes and provide proper funding for the minimum wage increase. Without immediate action, we risk the collapse of regulated homecare services in many areas, with devastating consequences for the older and disabled people who rely on them and additional pressure on an already struggling NHS.”
ENDS
Notes to editors
- The Homecare Association is the UK’s membership body for homecare providers, with over 2,200 members nationally. Our mission is to ensure that homecare receives the investment it deserves, so all of us can live well at home and flourish within our communities. The Homecare Association acts as a trusted voice, taking a lead in shaping homecare, in collaboration with partners across the care sector. It also provides hands-on support and practical tools for its members. The Homecare Association’s members agree to abide by the Association’s Code of Practice.
- Local Authorities and the NHS fund 79% of homecare services. Staffing comprises 70-80% of costs of care delivery. Unlike other businesses, care providers cannot increase prices because public bodies dictate these.
- Homecare Association report reveals critically low fee rates for state-funded homecare.
- The Care Provider Alliance shares the devastating findings from a comprehensive survey of over 1,180 care and support providers, revealing the social care sector faces potential collapse due recent Budget measures.
Contact
Daisy Cooney – Head of Policy, Practice and Innovation
E-mail: [email protected]
Telephone: 020 8661 8160
Mobile: 07435 910654
