Responding to the announcements from the Prime Minister and Baroness Casey on adult social care and the Casey Commission Big Conversation, Cllr Eamonn O’Brien, Chair of the Local Government Association, said:
“Building the broadest possible cross-party consensus and public support for change will be essential for adult social care reform to get across the line and stand the test of time.
“We share the ambition of the Casey Commission to engage the public on its thinking in its process. Councils’ role as convenors of local people and communities can help maximise input into the Commission’s Big Conversation.
“Across the political spectrum, councils with cross-party convening powers already agree on many of the key challenges and priorities. Local government is more than a stakeholder in this process; it is a partner and the democratic system through which reform will be led. We are ready to play our part in building consensus.
“Councils are uniquely placed to bring together the collective working from every part of England, shaping local markets and commissioning services alongside partners in the NHS and voluntary sector.
“We believe the Government should make the case to the public for a national funding solution for adult social care, ensuring any National Care Service strengthens consistency and entitlement, not replaces local democratic leadership.
“The focus on improving pay and workforce support in adult social care is important and a vital step towards securing long-term sustainability for the sector. However, proposed funding is not likely to be sufficient to cover the full cost of a Fair Pay Agreement. Local government must be part of decision-making to avoid a scenario where an FPA jeopardises the supply of care and sustainability of council finances.
“Success will require a new partnership between national government, local government and the public. It will ultimately be judged by whether people who draw on care and support are better able to remain connected to the people, places and passions that matter most in their lives.”