Care England Welcomes NHS Investment in Social Care, But it Must Be Delivered Properly

Care England welcomes the Health and Social Care Secretary’s recognition that the NHS 10-year plan will include elements of social care. This acknowledgment reflects what we have long been saying: a strong social care system is essential for a strong NHS. If funding is allocated correctly, it could make a real difference in easing pressures across both sectors and ensuring people get the care they need, when they need it.

However, the details matter. For too long, funding announcements have failed to match the reality on the ground. Rising employer National Insurance Contributions (eNICs), historic underfunding, and increasing demand are stretching social care to its limits.

The Spring Statement presents a real opportunity to turn words into action. By getting funding right – ensuring it reaches frontline services and reflects the true cost of care – the government can stabilise the sector, support the workforce, and unlock much-needed capacity to help people live well and reduce avoidable hospital admissions.

Professor Martin Green OBE, Chief Executive of Care England, said:

“The government’s recognition that social care needs greater investment is a positive step, but we have to make sure this isn’t just another comment that doesn’t translate into real change. Social care providers, local authorities, and the people who rely on these services need clarity and confidence that this funding will reach them and be enough to make a real impact”.

Every day, care providers tell us they’re struggling to keep up with rising costs, from higher wages to increased energy bills, all while being paid fees that don’t cover the real cost of delivering care. The Spring Statement is a chance to turn the tide – by making sure funding is meaningful, targeted, and timely. The NHS and social care are two sides of the same coin; investing in one without properly funding the other will only push the crisis further down the road.”

To ensure this funding has the greatest possible impact, Care England urges the government to:
– Ensure funding reflects the true cost of care.
– Support the workforce – the increase in employer NICs alone means social care providers need immediate relief to help recruit and retain staff.
– Work with local authorities to deliver sustainable fees – councils need confidence that they can commission care at fair rates now and in the future.
– Make social care a long-term priority, not just a short-term fix – this must be the start of a joined-up approach that gives social care the stability it needs to thrive.

The government has an opportunity to deliver real change – to ensure social care is not only supported today but strengthened for the future. The right investment now will mean better care, a stronger workforce, and an NHS that can function more effectively. Let’s make sure we get this right.

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