Commenting on the findings, Morgan Vine, Head of Policy and Influencing at Independent Age, said:
“During the pandemic it’s been impossible to ignore the life changing impact that good quality social has had on the people who need it, and those close to them. However, what is also clear is that those relying on, and working in, social care often don’t get the support they need.
Even before COVID-19 took hold, we at Independent Age were talking with people across the country to find out what they felt they needed from the social care system. People shared their wishes to maintain their dignity and independence, build a rapport with their carers, and not have the worry of facing unlimited costs. A universal entitlement to care that is free at the point of use, like the NHS, would be a big step in the right direction.
The current broken and fragmented system is resulting in thousands of people going through financial, physical and mental struggles. This polling paints a clear picture that the public want the Government to seize this opportunity and put forward a bold and brave plan for reform.”