11/05/2021


ADASS responds to the Queen's Speech 
 
The Queen’s Speech included a reiteration of the Government’s previous commitment that ‘Proposals for social care reform will be brought forward’. There was however no indication of timings or potential scope of the proposals.

Those of us who are older or disabled and those of us who are carers are still waiting for the Government to set out its promised plans for adult social care. Politicians on all sides have been calling for a ‘1948 moment’. The Queen’s Speech was an opportunity for the Government to set out its plans, but all we heard was another promise to bring them forward. 
 
Governments have promised adult social care reform for the past 25 years but have all ultimately failed to deliver. Too many of us are not getting the care and support we need, and every delay means that more older and disabled people, families and carers are being left to struggle. Having committed previously to bring forward proposals ‘this year’, we are calling on ministers to set out their thinking ahead of the parliamentary summer recess.  We are ready to work with the Government to create the care and support we all want for ourselves and our families, but it must take the first step and set out its proposals.  


Stephen Chandler, ADASS President, said: 

"Adult social care is a positive force in our lives and our communities and it can play a huge role in post-pandemic social and economic recovery and the levelling-up of our nation.
 
"It is deeply frustrating that we did not hear any detail of how ministers intend to make social care fit for purpose in the 21st century so that it can enable young disabled and older people and carers to realise their ambitions and maximise their independence."



- ENDS -
 
NOTE TO EDITORS
 
The Association of Directors of Adults Social Services is a charity. Our members are current and former directors of adult care or social services and their senior staff. Our objectives include:
  • Furthering comprehensive, equitable, social policies and plans which reflect and shape the economic and social environment of the time;
  • Furthering the interests of those who need social care services regardless of their backgrounds and status;
  • Promoting high standards of social care services.
 

For any follow up to the statement above, please contact:
Dr Phil McCarvill
ADASS Deputy Chief Officer
Phil.McCarvill@ADASS.org.uk
07919 483214