Labour under fire for delayed review of social care reforms
Downing Street suggested that taxpayers might see another hike to fund social care, with a spokesperson for Sir Keir Starmer not ruling out a fresh levy rise during this parliament to address the country's broken care system. The Prime Minister's Commission on Social Care, led by Baroness Louise Casey, will determine a sustainable funding model for older Brits, according to No10.
Architect of "Dilnot reforms" criticizes Labour's delay
Sir Andrew Dilnot criticized Labour for taking three years to review reforms to social care, stating that it is "bleedin’ obvious" that care should be properly funded in an affluent society. He urged for earlier recommendations by the Commission and suggested that the PM should consider tax hikes to cover the costs of reform.
Concerns over prolonged probes and lack of progress
Kathryn Smith, Chief Executive of the Social Care Institute for Excellence, expressed frustration over the continuous cycle of probes and commissions without tangible outcomes in the social care sector. Around 2.6 million people in England over 50 have faced difficulties accessing care, as per Age UK.
Backlash over scrapping of £86,000 care cap proposal
In the October Budget last year, Chancellor Rachel Reeves faced criticism for abandoning former Tory leader Boris Johnson's plan to cap personal care spending at £86,000 in England over a lifetime. The move was deemed "not deliverable," but Sir Andrew Dilnot condemned it as a "tragedy."
