Care Expert Calls on Chancellor to Give Social Care the Cash Boost it Badly Needs
Steve Sawyer, health and social care expert at Access Group, commented, has called on the Chancellor to give social care
cash boost in the forthcoming budget, saying:“In a period of unwavering uncertainly due to
Brexit, this year’s Budget presents a great opportunity for Phillip Hammond to restore confidence by giving the NHS and social care sector the shot in the arm it so badly craves.
We can no longer skirt around the issue of an under supported NHS and social care system.
“Granted, the government has already pledged to find an extra £20bn for the NHS by 2023, and whilst rumour indicates this may come partly through tax rises, we can no longer skirt around the issue – an investment in technology is now paramount if we want to see a change.
“Previously highlighted as a key issue to address by Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Matt Hancock, the question now is whether the government will step up and help providers, or, alternatively, if councils should be leaned on to show preference for those who already have the right systems in place.
The release button is there for the NHS and social care sector. Hammond simply needs to press go.
“It’s no secret that technology in the care sector reduces operational costs and improves care quality, which in turn eases the burden on the NHS by reducing hospital admissions. The right technology also increases productivity in the sector, which has a positive knock-on effect for capacity levels in the UK’s care system. It’s a blindingly obvious solution – the release button is there, Hammond simply needs to press go.
The chance to relieve pressure on the wider housing market.
“The care sector is also crying out for restrictions to be lifted in regard to planning permission.
Caroline Dinenage, Minister of State for Health, has already announced a substantial investment to facilitate the building of “extra-care” or “housing with care” units. Not only have these shown to be beneficial for the wellbeing of residents, but it also helps by freeing up larger properties for the wider market. However, with the aforementioned planning permissions restrictions still in place, we could be missing a chance to relieve pressure on the wider housing market, begging the question how fruitful will these actually be?”
