The Local Government Association says that a standalone plan which prioritises adult social care is crucial to make the government’s ambitions for the NHS a success.
The Local Government Association (LGA) has called on the government to develop a standalone plan which prioritises and recognises the full value of adult social care if the government’s ambitions for the NHS are to have the best chance of success.
It did so in its submission to the consultation on the ten-year plan for the health service.
“A plan for adult social care reform isn’t just about funding – it’s about thinking through how the Government works with the public, private and voluntary sectors, the workforce and – crucially – people drawing on care and support, to codesign a new system that helps people live independent, fulfilling lives,” says David Fothergill, chair of the LGA’s Community Wellbeing Board.
Under pressure
Councils, through their role in public health, social care, housing, transport and leisure, play a central role in supporting and promoting people’s health, wellbeing and independence.
The adult social care sector has been left struggling after years of underfunding and rising demand. In 2023/24, 72% of councils overspent their social care budgets and increases to employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs) will add significant costs for councils and the wider social care sector next year.
LGA analysis estimates that this will mean a £637 million increase in councils’ wage bills for directly employed staff, and up to £1.13 billion through indirect costs via external providers including up to £628 million for commissioned adult social care services.
These pressures, compounded by inflation, says the LGA are putting vital services at significant risk of collapse.
Funding and support
“Councils are ready to play their part in creating a healthier and more independent society, but this won’t happen without proper funding and support for adult social care,” says Fothergill.
The LGA is urging the government to make adult social care a key part of its plans and says that reforms should focus on prevention, early support, and making sure care is centred around individuals’ needs. Investing in early help – like supporting working-age adults with disabilities or children with special needs – can save money in the long run and improve outcomes for people.
In its submission, the LGA also highlights the need for closer working between the NHS, councils, and charities to reduce health inequalities. These inequalities are linked to issues such as poor housing, low incomes, and lack of access to community facilities. Councils are already making a difference in these areas but need more funding and resources to do so effectively.
By fully integrating adult social care into the wider health and care system, the LGA says, councils can ensure that prevention, community-based care, and digital transformation are successful, helping to improve lives and outcomes for people across the country.
