There has been a mixed reaction to the progress surrounding the newly launched commission into adult social care.
In a positive move forward the government has published the terms of reference for Baroness Casey of Blackstock’s independent review, a commission which may lead eventually to a national adult care service. The aim is to have a fair and affordable adult care system. The terms of reference set out that the commission will report directly to the Prime Minister and its work will be split over 2 phases, with concerns mainly around the timeline for phase 2.
Other commentators are speculating that there are challenges around timescales, particularly around the longer-term reporting timeframes, which will lead to actual implementation of any recommendations in the report potentially being many years away.
Phase 1, reporting in 2026, is focussing on maximising existing resources for medium term improvements - the commission will look to reach a consensus with the public on how best to meet the current and future needs of the population. It will consider older people’s care and support for working age disabled adults separately.
This will all be reviewed alongside current reforms relating to the NHS, local government and the Employment Rights Bill and Fair Pay Agreement for care workers.
Phase 2, is looking at the longer term – and will not be reporting back until 2028, focussing on the long-term transformation of adult social care. This will build on the medium-term recommendations to look at addressing demographic change, considering alternative models that could be considered in future to deliver a fair and reasonably priced adult care system.
Many commentators are already suggesting that with reports being as late as 2028, actual implementation is too far away for much needed change now and therefore the emphasis and real momentum needs to be from Phase 1.
The commission will be working alongside other government departments, including HM Treasury, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and the Department for Work and Pensions to discuss findings. We understand that each of the relevant government departments will be supporting the commission, with their analysis and data and encourage all local authorities to be sharing their experience.
