Social care a ‘striking omission’ from Autumn Statement, says KPMG
A lack of additional funding for local authorities’ social care provision is a "striking omission" from the Autumn Statement, according to KPMG.
Joanna Killian, Partner, and Head of Local Government, KPMG, said: “Local authorities and the NHS have been unanimous in exclaiming that adult social care is at financial breaking point and so the Chancellor's failure to offer any additional support comes as a blow to the most vulnerable in society. It also places growing pressure on the NHS as opportunities to prevent emergencies are missed.
“The National Living Wage increase is a welcome driver for social mobility, but it risks becoming another financial burden on cash-strapped councils for which no support was offered. Add to this a looming financial crisis in children’s services, and it is extremely concerning that local government finances barely received a mention in the Chancellor’s statement to parliament.
“The Chancellor has rightly acknowledged the dangers presented by uncertainty in the UK economy and promised action to improve innovation and productivity to help boost prosperity. Better health, stronger families, resilient communities and successful care businesses are central to a thriving and civilized society. We urge the Chancellor to support innovation and productivity in the care sector as strongly as in any other.
“The proposed investment in affordable housing provides a big opportunity to create sustainable housing that promotes independence and enables people to look after themselves and their families, and live healthier lives – and a devolved approach will enable local government to make the best of these precious resources.”
