2023-11-22 14:34:54
“Yet another disappointing announcement” – Hft responds to the Autumn Statement
Learning disability charity Hft has responded to today’s “disappointing” Autumn Statement as it calls on the Government to implement a long term funding plan for social care.
Kirsty Matthews, CEO of Hft, says:
“Today’s Autumn Statement amounts to yet another disappointing Government announcement. This was an invaluable, but missed, opportunity to invest in the beleaguered adult social care sector.
“As highlighted by a recent National Audit Office report, the Government is behind schedule on its reforms and faces significant and continued pressures around unmet need, workforce shortages and finances.
“This corroborates our own report, the Sector Pulse Check, produced in partnership with Care England, which revealed that cost pressures had forced almost one third of adult social care providers to consider closing altogether in 2022.
“With this in mind, we welcome the National Living Wage increase to £11.44p/h, but implore the Government to ensure that local authorities receive sufficient funding to pay adult social care providers enough to cover this increased cost, without forcing cuts in other areas of care provision.
“It’s high time the Government places forward a considered, long term funding plan for social care, with metrics to ensure that allocated money makes its way to the front line. Only then will our sector, our invaluable workforce, and those who draw upon our support, be able to plan for a stable and thriving future.”
Notes to editors
For further information please email media.enquiries@hft.org.uk
About Hft
Proudly established in 1962 by a group of visionary parents, Hft is a charity supporting more than 2,500 learning disabled adults in England and Wales. Together, we are creating a future where learning disabled people and their families can live the best life possible.
Providing personalised support. Creating solutions for living independently. Coming together to campaign for positive change. Fundraising for new opportunities and a bigger impact.
In 2033, we’ll live in a world where learning disabled people have greater choice. About where they live. The support they need and want. And how to spend their time and money.
Learning disability versus difficulty
A learning disability is different from a learning difficulty but the terms are often confused and used inter-changeably. A learning difficulty does not affect general intellect, whereas a learning disability is a life-long condition characterised by a reduced intellectual ability and struggle with everyday activities.
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For more information about Hft please visit www.hft.org.uk
