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Press Releases
05 Apr 2023
by Rhidian Hughes

VODG Responds to Next Steps to Put People at the Heart of Care

Yesterday, the government laid out its Policy Paper, "Next steps to put People at the Heart of Care". After a detailed review of the paper, Rhidian Hughes, CEO of VODG, commented:

"At the Voluntary Organisations Disability Group (VODG), we are deeply disappointed with government's handling of adult social care. This document marks a significant betrayal to the millions of people who draw on social care to enable them to live independent and fulfilling lives. Far from progressing a policy agenda, the administration seems intent on taking backward steps.

As a charity, that supports 150 disability service providers across the country we have been advocating for social care reform for years, and we had a different vision in mind. We urge the government to listen and harness the voices of people who draw on social care. We need collaboration with us and the hundreds of third sector providers who work tirelessly to support disabled people, and to develop reforms that meet the national interest for a properly funded and sustainable sector.  

The measures announced fail to address the severe shortage of care workers, the rising cost of care, and the lack of choice and control people have over their care. The adult social care sector faces an enormous challenge with over 100,000 vacancies for care workers in England alone. Furthermore, the cost of care has risen by more than 50% in the past decade, leaving many struggling to afford the care they require.

VODG firmly calls upon the government to elevate the wages of care workers to a level that reflects the value of their work, give people more choice and control over their care, and ensure that people have access to the care they need when they need it. These reforms are vital to establishing essential services that are fair, affordable, and accessible for everyone who needs it.

We implore the government to prioritise people's needs in the reform process and work with social care organisations to develop reforms that will have a genuine impact on people's lives. For those who rely on social care, time is of the essence, and we cannot afford to wait any longer. The government must act now."

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