The National Care Forum has responded to the announcement that Baroness Casey has hosted cross-party talks to discuss the work of the Independent Commission on Adult Social Care and the need for reform of the sector.
NCF CEO Vic Rayner said: “These talks are a positive step forward and we also welcome the confirmation that a programme of engagement is on its way so people drawing on care and support can put in their own words how this vital public service enables them to live the lives they want to live.
“It has been positive that over the summer our not-for-profit members have begun to engage with the Commission, and we have been struck by the desire of the team to listen and explore the landscape through stories and discussion. They have heard from our members, and the people they support, about the current pressures the social care and support sector is under and also the innovative approaches many are exploring around new models of care and technology. Members were pleased to host meetings on location, as well as join virtual discussions with CEOs and senior leaders. We remain committed to engaging in the work of the Commission and continuing to create opportunities for members’ voices to be heard.
“It is vital that cross party talks happen so that the future direction of this vital public service is underpinned by a set of commitments that transcend party politics. Social care is central to each and every community up and down the country, and we need to see a sustainable future that everyone can rely on. Social care matters to us all.”
