The National Care Forum (NCF) has welcomed Prime Minister Andy Burnham's commitment to place adult social care at the heart of his government's plans, describing his recent speech as an encouraging signal that long-awaited reform is becoming a national priority.
In his address, the Prime Minister called for action on areas that "politics has neglected, like social care," highlighting the need for bold and lasting reform. The comments have been welcomed across the not-for-profit care sector as recognition of the vital role that social care plays in supporting millions of people, their families and unpaid carers.
Responding on behalf of the NCF, Chief Executive Professor Vic Rayner OBE said:
"It is fantastic to hear our future Prime Minister place social care front and centre of his plans and give it such a prominent place in the political landscape. The courage and conviction he has called for provide a clarion call for a commitment across government and political parties to deliver meaningful reform."
The NCF believes the development of a future National Care Service should place not-for-profit organisations at its heart, backed by investment in the social care workforce, greater use of technology and innovation, and a care system built on fairness, rights and choice for everyone who draws on support.
The organisation also highlighted the unique role of not-for-profit providers, which are deeply rooted within their local communities and reinvest resources into improving care rather than generating profits. As government develops plans for greater devolution and a National Care Service, the NCF believes these community-based organisations are well placed to help deliver meaningful and lasting reform.
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 champion high-quality, person-centred care, influence national policy and ensure the voices of not-for-profit organisations, care professionals and the people they support are heard. Through our membership, BCOP contributes to these important conversations while continuing to provide compassionate, community-focused care and support for older people across Birmingham.