Responding to the inclusion of a Care Bill in today’s Queen’s Speech, Richard Hawkes, Chair of the Care & Support Alliance, said:

“The social care system is in deep crisis. The number of older people, disabled people and carers that need social care is increasing. At the same time budgets are shrinking and support is being rationed.

“The Care and Support Alliance welcomes the commitment from the Government to end the grossly unfair postcode lottery of the current system and introduce a lifetime cap on the costs of care. But there is a real danger that eligibility will be set at a level that excludes most people that need support to get up, get dressed and get out of the house.

“Legislation alone can’t solve the care crisis. The Care and Support bill, unveiled tomorrow, needs to be accompanied by a much needed emergency injection of funds together with a long-term financial commitment ensuring that older, disabled, seriously ill people and their carers are supported by a fair and sustainable care system.”

Read the CSA Briefing on the Queen’s Speech