Today the Homecare Association has signed an unprecedented joint open letter that has been sent to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting. The letter is signed and endorsed by over 30 social care leaders, and people with lived experience, representing organisations and voices from the whole of the sector. It registers concern with the new government’s decision to scrap funding that was set aside for the training and upskilling of social care workers.
“The last few days have raised alarm bells for those working in adult social care and those drawing on care and support services.”
“Significant delays by the previous government left social care vulnerable to cuts because programmes were not nailed down. We urge this government not to continue that pattern. Future commitments must be steeped in an understanding of the importance of valuing and respecting those whose everyday lives depend on social care delivery and employment. For millions of people, social care has the power to transform everyday life. Cutting these vital programmes has not only a material impact on all of their lives, but the lives of loved ones, friends, and families.”
It also says:
“We now need to see positive action on social care. There is time, political capital, and expertise of a united social care sector to make this happen. We urge the government to change course and stand ready to help you transform social care for the millions working in it and most vitally relying upon it.”
Dr Jane Townson OBE, CEO of the Homecare Association commented on the government's decision to scrap the Adult Social Care Training and Development Fund:
''Plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose. Social care remains the poor relation to the NHS, despite its crucial role in supporting people to live well at home and reducing pressure on hospitals.
The new government has been quick to share its plans for the NHS, but has said little about social care, apart from talk of fair pay agreements, for which there is no funding.
We call on the government to come clean and clarify its plans for the sector. Without meaningful, funded reform, we risk the collapse of a system that millions depend on. The time for empty promises and half-measures is over – we need action now."
