RCOT Chief Executive Steve Ford said:
“We’re pleased that the government is starting to look at the future for social care, but today’s announcement is thin on detail other than on the levy. There is also little on how the government proposes to break down the historic divisions between health and social care, beyond a short reference to the development of a future integration plan and vague mention of reform.
“Social care should be provided to all who need it and free at the point of use, to help address the inequalities COVID-19 has shone a light on in the sector. Whilst today’s announcement will provide relief to some, the announcement of £5.4bn over three years with no guarantees of sustainable funding beyond this is a big concern for the long-term future of care.
“Nor does it say the government will address the real issues in the social care workforce which are leading to chronic shortages all over the country. Occupational therapists as well as other allied health professions will have listened in vain to hear about how the government intends to tackle the issues they face on a daily basis.
“Whilst it is positive that in principle the government has committed at least £500m of funding for the development of the social care workforce, it is not nearly enough to fund this, mental health support, and also reform key aspects of the workforce. For social care staff it is offset by the extra levy that they and their employers will pay, which will take more resources out of the system.
“It is now the time to improve access, quality, and levels of social care and rehabilitation support, so that those who need it receive the care they need, when they need it. Those working in social care must have parity of esteem with the NHS workforce and be given proper development opportunities. We cannot wait until 2023 to start tackling these issues, we need to start now.”