In a report by express Labor’s decision to delay much-needed social care reforms until 2028 by launching yet another independent commission, it is a major disappointment for a sector in desperate need of change.
Social care has been in crisis for years, and instead of taking action, we’re faced with more delays and discussions. This feels like yet another report destined to gather dust while the sector continues to collapse.
For those of us working in social care, the frustration is immense. The problems are clear: severe staff shortages, rising costs, and growing demand due to an ageing population. Waiting another three years to act is unacceptable. The care sector is already at its breaking point.
Independent care providers, who handle 97% of home care services, are struggling with soaring costs, lack of staff, and insufficient government funding. At the same time, delayed hospital discharges are overwhelming the NHS, costing millions, and worsening outcomes for patients.
Delaying reforms only makes these problems worse. According to our New Ageing Index, 83% of people aged 66 and over believe action is needed now, not more reports or commissions. Public confidence in the government’s ability to address these issues is fading fast.
When Labour won the election, many, especially older people, hoped the new government would bring change. But within three months, optimism among over-75s dropped from 35% to just 22%. Six months later, confidence in change has likely fallen even further.
Every day without reform harms the care sector and the economy. Labour’s recent decision to increase employers’ national insurance contributions hit care providers hard. At Home Instead, where I work, this adds £9 million in annual costs—a significant blow for a sector where wages are already the largest expense.
Social care and the NHS are deeply connected. If the government wants both to recover and thrive, social care must be treated as a priority. This crisis affects millions of families today and will impact even more in the future.
There are 12.7 million people aged 65 and over in the UK, making up 19% of the population. By 2041, this number will exceed 16 million. These individuals deserve better than delays and political inaction.
We need long-term solutions, not a plan to wait until 2028. Labour should create a cross-party group with care providers, healthcare experts, and economists to find real solutions within a year—not three. These solutions exist, whether it’s better funding for community care, improved workforce planning, or embracing technology. What’s missing is the political will to act.
Delaying action isn’t just bad for the sector—it’s bad politics. Older voters are a growing part of the electorate, and they won’t easily forgive another government that avoids tough decisions. Labour’s 2024 promise to reform social care helped them win support, but breaking that promise risks losing voter trust.
This isn’t about party politics—it’s about doing what’s right. Labour must take immediate steps to address this crisis. Our ageing population, the NHS, care workers, and families in need of support can’t wait until 2028. It’s time to act now.
