Chancellor John Healey delivered the Autumn Budget on Wednesday 28 October, setting out the Government’s plans for public spending, taxation and the economy.

Responding to the Budget, the Care and Support Alliance’s Co-Chairs said:

“We recognise the difficult decisions facing the Chancellor and welcome the Government’s continued commitment to fundamental reform of adult social care. However, it is disappointing that today’s Budget does not go further to address the immediate pressures facing the adult social care sector. The Government has begun to set out an ambitious vision for the future, but delivering that vision requires action and investment now.

“The Budget confirms plans to change the State Pension triple lock from 2030, with the savings intended to help fund free personal care for older people. It will be important to understand the implications for pensioners, particularly those on the lowest incomes, while ensuring that the wider National Care Service delivers for everyone who needs care and support, including working-age disabled adults.

“The Casey Commission presents a vital opportunity to develop a fairer, more sustainable system of care and support. Its recommendations must address the needs of people of all ages, alongside the fundamental questions of eligibility, entitlement and funding.

“We welcome the commitment to end the unfair Carer’s Allowance earnings cliff edge, which has caused considerable hardship for unpaid carers. While we recognise that introducing a new system will take time, it is important that carers are supported under the existing arrangements in the meantime. This reform must also be part of wider action to improve the financial and practical support available to unpaid carers.

“The Government’s commitment to a Fair Pay Agreement for adult social care workers is also welcome, but clarity is needed on how it will be adequately funded and delivered. Without sufficient investment, additional costs risk placing further pressure on councils, care providers and people who fund their own care, undermining efforts to improve pay and retain staff.

“We also welcome the Government’s decision to retain Healthwatch, recognising the vital importance of independent scrutiny and ensuring that the voices of people drawing on care and support, their families and unpaid carers are heard and acted upon.

“Too many older and disabled people are struggling to access the care and support they need, while unpaid carers, councils and providers face mounting pressures. The Government must address these challenges alongside its longer-term plans for reform, ensuring that the National Care Service delivers dignity, independence, choice and control for everyone.”