Care System at Breaking Point

The Government’s care system “is on its knees”, according to a coalition of more than 80 charities.

The Care and Support Alliance (CSA) has warned that council cuts have left 300,000 older and disabled people struggling on their own with day-to-day tasks such as washing and dressing.

Underfunding to the tune of £3.5bn since 2000 has led to increased rationing of care at a time when demand is rising. This leads to even more pressure on unpaid carers and the NHS as hospitals are often used as a safety net for people with nowhere else to turn. Quality is also being compromised, says the CSA.

Care needs are classified as either critical, substantial, moderate or low. The Association of Directors of Adult Social Services claims that 89% of English councils do not offer help to moderate or low cases. This figure has risen by 17% since 2011 as local authorities struggle to balance their budgets.

Contact Heritage Will Writing on 02380 879243 for advice about long-term care planning.