Five biggest firms have increased share of the care home market by 26% in last two years. Concerns the trend can lead to lower prices and a reduction in quality of care. Home care has become more fragmented with greater number of smaller providers.
Reshaping of market is largely by accident rather than design, the CQC says. Some councils are turning to self-funders to buy care for those relying on help. The government's focus on social care was welcome, but he says it is important the market is "shaped around what'
Care providers say changes to national insurance contributions, inflation and rising cost of energy are making smaller homes unviable. The department of health and social care says it is committed to overhauling social care.
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