Social care is broken. The current fragmented and privatised system is unfit to meet the needs of everyone who relies upon it. But a better way is possible.
Most social care in England is commissioned by local government and delivered by private and independent companies. The system has been run down by a combination of huge funding cuts to councils and profit extraction by some providers.
National standards are not properly enforced and care workers often face poverty wages and exploitation. Pay for care workers is at rock-bottom minimum wage rates, even though it’s a difficult, skilled job that requires them to take on huge responsibilities. Some receive even less because they are not paid adequately for travel time or for overnight sleep-in shifts.
Care workers are the beating heart of a system that should look after our loved ones with compassion and kindness. Care workers must be valued, recognised and rewarded as skilled professionals.
We know it’s time for radical change. Social care should become part of a nationally recognised institution which can respond to the needs of older and disabled people, improving and enriching their lives. As the largest union in the care sector, UNISON is now leading the campaign for a National Care Service.
For further information and to get involved in the campaign please visit the National UNISON website.
