Baroness Louise Casey, head of the independent commission on social care in England, has criticized successive governments for their lack of oversight in the sector. She highlighted that care services for older people and adults with disabilities have developed in an uncontrolled manner, leading to a postcode lottery in service availability. Casey also pointed out that self-funders pay significantly higher fees compared to what councils pay for state-supported care.
Casey emphasized that care services are undervalued and that the NHS has become overly focused on medical care. She cited the Covid inquiry report, which revealed that the care sector was neglected early in the pandemic, allowing the virus to spread rapidly. The commission's research indicates that England lacks a clear system of stewardship for social care, unlike other countries.
Casey's final recommendations for social care services are expected next summer. She advocates for a new care settlement based on shared values of decency, contribution, and a duty to care for others.
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