A Care & Support Alliance survey of nearly 4,000 people has revealed a shocking picture of how a widespread absence of care is making many people unwell, unsafe and unfed. This is leading to unnecessary pressure on the NHS and is pushing carers to breaking point.
The report explains:
- 1 in 5 respondents have felt unsafe moving around in their own home, and over a third can’t leave it.
- 1 in 5 respondents said they’ve gone without meals due to a lack of care and support.
- 1 in 4 respondents said they needed hospital treatment and 1 in 8 told us they’ve been delayed leaving hospital because of not getting the care they need.
- Over a quarter have been unable to maintain basics like washing, dressing and/or visiting the toiletRespondents told us:
“I’ve become a burden to my family, lost many friends and just can’t be the husband and partner, I would like to be. It’s not just me that suffers, but all the family.”
“When I was caring for my mother at home getting respite care was very hard – In fact for a long time I didn’t know I was entitled. It’s a lottery as to whether social services give you the information you need about what you are entitled to as a career. “
Being abandoned by the care system is leaving people unsafe, alone and unable to leave the house. It’s leaving carers at breaking point and families at a loss as to what to do.
This is a national scandal and something needs to change. The Government needs to get urgent funding into the system, to help people now. Also in the upcoming Government consultation proper solutions are needed to address the country’s growing care needs.
The Government must act now, and plan for a better social care future for all those that rely on
social care. Sign the open letter today: careandsupportalliance.com/letter
