Our response to the social care commission update

In response to the announcement of a new social care commission and additional support for the sector, Jim Kane, Chief Executive Officer at Community Integrated Care said:

“The announcement of an independent commission, chaired by Baroness Louise Casey, to reform adult social care in England in two phases, is a much welcome step forward for people with learning disabilities. However to be effective, phase one must conclude in 2026, prior to the implementation of a Fair Pay Agreement, an uplift to workforce pay and the funding required to support it.

Social care workers are the backbone of our communities, providing essential support that allows people with learning disabilities to live with dignity and independence. Yet their contributions have been undervalued for far too long, with low pay driving a crisis in recruitment and retention. Addressing this immediately is not just a matter of fairness, but a necessity to stabilise the sector.

While we support the ambition to build a consensus for long-term reform of funding for social care, this focus should not overshadow the immediate need for investment in the Spending Review 2026 to 2029, and action to improve the commissioning of social care services, support digitally enabled care and implement a national social care workforce strategy.

The time for action is now, and as a sector, we stand ready to work with the Government to secure a brighter future for those who rely on social care, their families and the workforce that supports them.”