Commenting on the publication of the Local Government Ombudsman report Review of Adult Social Care Complaints 2015/16, Janet Morrison, Chief Executive of Independent Age, the older people’s charity said:
“The sharp increase in complaints about adult social care is yet more evidence of a system in crisis. The number of complaints about home care has risen by 25% in the past year, more than any other area of adult care. Home care is an incredibly important part of making sure that someone is able to retain their independence and stay in their own home. Inadequate home care can mean that older people lose the support they need for day-to-day tasks such as dressing or washing, and may be left to suffer in silence. This rise in complaints is the consequence of a care sector that is stretched to breaking point, with workforce gaps and a shortfall in funding impacting on the care many older people receive. We must ensure that poor care services are identified and addressed as a matter of urgency.”