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03/01/2012
Call For Consensus On 'Failing' Care System
An open letter to the Government on the UK's care of the elderly has called for urgent and fundamental reform in the sector, as carers reach "breaking point".
The letter, from charities, faith groups and senior figures in the NHS said that while individuals in the UK were living longer, the unavoidable challenge was that there is an increasing number of people who need care.
The letter, addressed to all members of the government said it was a challenge that everyone was failing to meet in light of "terrible examples" of abuse and neglect in parts of the care system, which emerged in the latter half of 2011.
"This comes at huge cost to the dignity and independence of older and disabled people, but also to our society, family life and the economy. An estimated 800,000 older people are being left without basic care – lonely, isolated and at risk. Others face losing their homes and savings because of soaring care bills."
The letter added that disabled people were unable get the support they need to live their lives independently and that businesses were losing increasing numbers of experienced staff who are forced to give up work to care for older or disabled relatives.
"These carers can then be pushed to breaking point, providing round-the- clock care. Our NHS is also paying the price, as a lack of support leads to avoidable hospital admissions and then keeps older and disabled in hospital beds because they cannot be cared for at home.
'We have a duty as a nation to change this – but it requires political leadership."
He letter also called for the Government and the other party leaders to seize upcoming cross party talks on care provision to deliver a social care system that can provide "well-funded and high-quality care" and the support expected for "ourselves and our families".
(DW)
The letter, from charities, faith groups and senior figures in the NHS said that while individuals in the UK were living longer, the unavoidable challenge was that there is an increasing number of people who need care.
The letter, addressed to all members of the government said it was a challenge that everyone was failing to meet in light of "terrible examples" of abuse and neglect in parts of the care system, which emerged in the latter half of 2011.
"This comes at huge cost to the dignity and independence of older and disabled people, but also to our society, family life and the economy. An estimated 800,000 older people are being left without basic care – lonely, isolated and at risk. Others face losing their homes and savings because of soaring care bills."
The letter added that disabled people were unable get the support they need to live their lives independently and that businesses were losing increasing numbers of experienced staff who are forced to give up work to care for older or disabled relatives.
"These carers can then be pushed to breaking point, providing round-the- clock care. Our NHS is also paying the price, as a lack of support leads to avoidable hospital admissions and then keeps older and disabled in hospital beds because they cannot be cared for at home.
'We have a duty as a nation to change this – but it requires political leadership."
He letter also called for the Government and the other party leaders to seize upcoming cross party talks on care provision to deliver a social care system that can provide "well-funded and high-quality care" and the support expected for "ourselves and our families".
(DW)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:After a dry start this morning rain will spread from the northwest across all parts. This afternoon will be dull with some patchy rain and drizzle. Becoming much milder through the afternoon. Maximum temperature 11 °C.Tonight:A cloudy evening and night with a little light rain or drizzle, perhaps some clear periods developing along the east coast. A very mild night everywhere. Minimum temperature 10 °C.
