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The National Care Forum (NCF) has welcomed a series of major announcements from Prime Minister Andy Burnham, describing them as "a momentous day for social care" and an important step towards long-awaited reform of England's care system.
Speaking at an event hosted by Jewish Care, a not-for-profit provider and fellow NCF member, the Prime Minister outlined a package of measures designed to accelerate reform, including bringing forward the reporting timetable for Baroness Casey's independent commission on adult social care, launching a nationwide "Big Conversation on Care", and committing to improve pay and career progression for the care workforce.
For many across the sector, the announcements signal a renewed determination to place adult social care at the centre of national policy.
The National Care Forum has welcomed the government's decision to speed up the work of the Casey Commission and begin cross-party discussions aimed at securing a long-term vision for adult social care that extends beyond individual governments.
The NCF believes that after decades of reviews and reports, the sector now needs decisive action to create a sustainable care system that can meet the needs of an ageing population.
Responding to the announcements, Vic Rayner OBE, Chief Executive of the National Care Forum, said:
"A momentous day for social care! Less than two weeks into his premiership, Andy Burnham stood up to speak up for social care… We welcome the ambition he set out, including speeding up Baroness Casey's independent commission and the commencement of cross-party talks to establish a commitment to the future of adult social care that transcends party politics."
A key message from the NCF is that not-for-profit organisations should play a central role in the future National Care Service.
Unlike commercial providers, not-for-profit organisations reinvest any surplus back into improving services, supporting staff and investing in the communities they serve. The NCF argues that this community-based approach, built on accountability and social purpose, should form a cornerstone of future reform.
The organisation also welcomed Baroness Casey's comments highlighting concerns about profiteering within parts of the care sector and her emphasis on ensuring that public investment delivers the best possible outcomes for people who rely on care and support.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of the social care workforce, recognising the commitment of care professionals and the significant contribution made by international colleagues.
The government's ambition to improve pay, strengthen career pathways and better align the health and care workforce has been warmly welcomed by the NCF.
The organisation believes that a successful National Care Service should include:
Alongside the policy announcements, the government has launched the "Big Conversation on Care"—a nationwide engagement programme designed to gather views from people who use care services, unpaid carers, professionals and communities.
The NCF believes this presents an important opportunity for the public to help shape the future of adult social care and ensure reforms reflect the needs and experiences of those who rely on the system every day.
As Vic Rayner concluded:
"Social care is central to each and every community up and down the country, and we need to see a sustainable future that everyone can rely on. Social care matters to us all. Let the Big Conversation on Care begin!"
BCOP is proud to be a member of the National Care Forum, the leading membership organisation representing more than 175 not-for-profit social care providers across the UK. The NCF works with government, policymakers and sector partners to influence national policy, champion high-quality person-centred care and ensure that the voices of not-for-profit organisations, care professionals and the people they support are heard.
Through our membership, BCOP contributes to these important national discussions while continuing to provide compassionate, community-focused care and support for older people across Birmingham.