ADASS responds to UK COVID-19 Inquiry Module 6 report

In response to the UK COVID-19 Inquiry’s Module 6 report, which examines the impact of the pandemic on the UK care sector, Phil Holmes, ADASS President, said:

“Many adults of all ages and from all backgrounds who were in need of care and support (or who gave support to others as unpaid carers) suffered and died during the pandemic. People working in adult social care experienced the same, putting themselves at risk to help people through the darkest days of covid, encountering trauma and loss while working extraordinarily long hours. 

“As we reflect on the lessons of the pandemic, we must not forget their dedication and the pressures they faced. Sadly, adult social care remains under significant strain 6 years on, with workforce shortages, high turnover of staff, inadequate pay and growing pressure on council budgets.

“It’s vital that we learn the lessons of the past, ensure that adult social care and  the people who draw on services are  no longer overlooked and we deliver long-promised reform to build a sustainable care system that can meet the growing demand. We continue to work with government, our members and partners to prepare for the future, including the development of an adult social care pandemic action plan.”