Sector Pulse Check 2023
Responding to the publication of the new Sector Pulse Check 2023 Report, Dr Rhidian Hughes, Chief Executive of the Voluntary Organisations Disability Group (VODG) says:
‘The latest Sector Pulse Check report paints a bleak picture of the impact years-long under-funding, growing demand and a fragmented workforce has on people who draw on social care support. The report is an urgent call to action for this government to reappraise its focus and to improve funding for adult social care.
‘Third sector providers are being put in an impossible position as they seek to maintain the quality of services at a time when operating costs are increasing and the real term commissioning rates are falling.
‘Disability services rely on the state for funding, yet the government has repeatedly failed to meet the funding challenges of today. We recognise the report’s highlight that government funding has not been felt on the frontline, often coming as short-term one-off grants, that fall far short of the sustainable funding the sector deserves. Consequently, charities are left in an impossible situation; committed to delivering services but where operating costs outstrip commissioned fee rates.
‘As we approach the Spring Budget it is not too late for this government to act. Without investment, greater value of the contribution social care makes and reform to the way services are commissioned, essential support will cease to exist, the impact of which will be felt acutely by the NHS, local communities and especially the most vulnerable in our society.'
ENDS
Read the full report here: https://www.hft.org.uk/get-involved/public-affairs-policy-and-campaigns-sector-pulse-check/