Social care

I agree that adult social care in this country is in need of reform. 4 out of every 5 people in care receive care from good or outstanding institutions; but it is clear that we need to build on this and ensure that everyone, especially the most vulnerable in our society, receives dignified care in old age.

The Government is currently developing its plan to reform the social care system, and I eagerly await its publication. I know the Government is considering a range of proposals as part of this process, and has sought input from MPs and peers across the party divide. It is vital that we get this right, and build the same cross-party consensus on social care that we have built on the NHS.

As we move towards a long-term solution for funding social care, I am pleased that the Government has demonstrated its commitment to this issue by making an extra £1.5 billion available to councils for adult social care services in last September’s spending round.