WIREDGOV

"This much-needed report is an opportunity to start rebuilding England's adult social care system and it must be seized upon.

"We now need to see political consensus and all parties working towards a reformed system where Government, councils, businesses, charities and communities can work effectively together to ensure future generations of older people and younger disabled adults can live full, happy lives and receive quality care when they need it.

"Whatever the finer details may be, reforming adult social care is primarily an issue about funding and this fundamental problem cannot be dodged forever. Collectively we all need to step up to the plate to tackle this and we shall keep urging national political leaders that the time for change is now. Councils are ready to play their part and others have to be too.

"People contributing more fairly to their own care costs and a greater role for insurance companies are both realistic and viable options, particularly given the current squeeze on public sector spending. However, there must still be a safety net for those unable to pay as well as a fair system for how costs above an individual's payment cap are funded. Councils do not have the resources to shoulder that alone.

"If Government supports the recommendation for a national minimum eligibility threshold at ‘substantial' until the current system is replaced, then they should ensure any additional costs incurred by councils are covered. 

"At the heart of reform also needs to be prolonging independence through better public health, leisure and transport schemes, more adaptable housing, new technologies, personal budgets, neighbourhood projects and better advice for self-funders and neighbourhood projects.

"The LGA is writing to all three leaders of Britain's major political parties calling on them to produce a care funding reform white paper by the end of this year, and a bill during 2012."

Author: LG Group Media Office
Contact: LG Group Media Office, Tel: 020 7664 3333 

NOTES TO EDITORS

For a copy of the LGA's declaration to the party leaders, which is being signed by member councils, contact the media team on 0207 6643253.