We Meet With Shadow Health Secretary

Community Integrated Care’s Chief Executive Officer, Jim Kane, and Head of Policy & Public Affairs, Ben Lehan-Powick met with Stuart Andrew MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, in Westminster on Tuesday 2^nd June, to discuss the future of adult social care and the urgent need for reform.

The meeting formed part of our charity’s ongoing work, engaging with political figures to ensure that the voice and experience of people within the social care sector continue to inform national conversations about care and support.

A key focus of the discussion was the Casey Review, which presents a vital opportunity for the social care system. We highlighted the value of bringing together perspectives from across the sector to help create meaningful change and shape reform that is practical, sustainable and centred on people’s needs.

The conversation also explored the importance of recognising care workers as a skilled and vital workforce. Drawing on our own experience, we shared how investing in our workforce has supported improved retention and helped strengthen the consistency and quality of care we provide.

Broader challenges facing the sector were also discussed, including the importance of sustainable funding and the role charities play in delivering care and support in communities across the country.

Reflecting on the meeting, Jim said, “This was a really constructive conversation at an important moment for social care. The Casey Review gives us a genuine opportunity to create meaningful change within the social care system, but only if it’s shaped by the people who know it best and is given the funding and resource that is needed.”

“We’ve seen first-hand how investing in our workforce improves retention and strengthens the quality of care. If we’re serious about reform, we must recognise care workers as the skilled professionals they are and back that up with action. We’d like to thank the Shadow Secretary of State for Health and Social Care for meeting with us and taking the time to hear about our experiences and ideas on how to make a positive difference for social care.”

Find out more about how we’re campaigning for social care at www.UnfairToCare.co.uk