Care sector "could collapse" before review concludes in 2028, founder warns
An owner of a care business which operates in Essex has warned of the potential collapse of the care system before a review concludes its work in 2028. The government has been criticised after announcing a review into adult social care would not be completed until 2028.
But Lausa Biragi, Founder of You & I Care, operating across Brentwood and Chelmsford, has warned that the care system could collapse before the ‘transform social care’ concludes. Baroness Louise Casey has been tasked with leading an independent probe into social care, to pave the way for the "National Care Service" that Labour promised in its manifesto.
Starting in April, the review will hone in on the most critical issues dogging the sector and publish initial recommendations by the middle of next year. A second phase, reporting by 2028, will make longer-term recommendations - including on funding, an issue which to date has repeatedly been kicked into the long grass.
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Though the Government has highlighted its plans to fix the sector, which is buckling under pressure from rising demand and years of underfunding. Under the proposals, an additional £86million will be set aside to help older and disabled people stay out of hospital this year, easing the pressure on the NHS.
Ms Biragi said: “I welcome the government’s ambition to create a consistent and high-quality National Care Service (NCS). However, I must share deep concerns about the lengthy timeline for implementation, warning that the care system could collapse before the review concludes. While I acknowledge the positive step of additional funding, including the £86 million increase to the Disabled Facilities Grant, the urgent challenges facing the sector cannot wait until 2028 - or even 2026.
"Existing research already provides evidence-based solutions, and immediate action is required to stabilise services and support those in need today." She wants emergency funding and regulatory reforms to address workforce shortages, funding gaps, and “inconsistencies in care delivery”.
She added a review of National Insurance contributions to align social care funding with National Health Service (NHS) mechanisms could help ensure a sustainable financial model. She said: “I urge the government to use existing data and frameworks which work despite drastic underfunding and central support, to implement interim measures immediately.
"Without swift action, the sector risks further deterioration, leaving vulnerable individuals without the care they urgently require. We dream of consistency across public and private care, and we stand ready to collaborate with policymakers to deliver reforms that ensure equitable, high-quality care for all.”
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: “The costs of care are set to double in the next 20 years which is why the Casey Commission will work to build consensus around a National Care Service that is fair and affordable.
“The Casey Commission will publish its first report next year and we have set out immediate actions to support people receiving care, including increased funding to allow disabled people to stay in their homes. Alongside this, we are giving local authorities up to an additional £3.7 billion in 2025/26, including a £880 million increase in the social care grant to support the sector.”