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Commenting on the Communities and Local Government Committee’s pre-Budget report on adult social care, Richard Humphries, Senior Policy Fellow at The King’s Fund, said: ‘The Committee’s report adds to the overwhelming evidence that the social care system is on its knees.

‘We estimate that the sector faces a funding gap of around £2 billion next year, so it is essential the Chancellor addresses this in this week’s Budget.

‘Additional funding in the Budget would provide welcome relief for older and disabled people, their families and carers who are being let down by the current system – and for hard-pressed councils and providers struggling to keep the system afloat. But without long-term reform of social care funding, this is like pouring water into a leaking bucket.

‘Successive governments have failed to meet this challenge. If the Prime Minister really believes in a country that works for everyone, it is a challenge her government cannot afford to duck.’

View report:  Government must commit to closing social care funding gap

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The King's Fund is an independent charity working to improve health and care in England. We help to shape policy and practice through research and analysis; develop individuals, teams and organisations; promote understanding of the health and social care system; and bring people together to learn, share knowledge and debate. Our vision is that the best possible health and care is available to all.