10.12.12
Two-thirds of councils freeze or cut preventative care
Cuts are causing local councils to freeze or reduce funding for personal care services, a new survey indicates.
Commissioned by the British Red Cross and conducted by ComRes, the survey found that 64% of English councils had reduced funding for preventative care and those with ‘low-level needs’, or kept it the same since 2010.
A third saw the budget for these services cut, by an average of 16%.
The British Red Cross (BRC) said that the cuts were short-sighted, as they created a greater burden on the NHS.
Chief executive Sir Nick Young said: “Cutting vital services is not only bad for elderly and vulnerable people, it’s bad economics. We know councils are facing pressures on their budgets but we urge them to rethink short-term cuts and spending freezes which could actually leave them worse off financially.
“The right support at the right time can transform people's lives by giving them the independence to enjoy life in their own home. Investing in preventative care also means millions of pounds will eventually be saved as fewer people need intensive and expensive support.”
Liz Kendall, the shadow minister for care and older people said: “This survey provides yet more evidence that vulnerable older and disabled people are paying the price of this government's short-sighted cuts to social care.
“Vital support that helps people stay living independently in their own homes is being stripped away. This is causing huge distress for them and their families and it is ending up costing us all more, as people end up having to use more expensive hospital and residential care.”
A Department of Health spokesperson said: “We know how important preventative services are and that older people want to stay independent and active for as long as possible. That is why are introducing legislation to make local councils prioritise early intervention and preventative care services in their local communities.
“The care of older people is a priority for this government, that is why we have taken action to protect access to care and support by providing an extra £7.2bn over four years.”
Tell us what you think – have your say below, or email us directly at [email protected]