Independent Commission on Adult Social Care

Lord Bishop of Norwich Excerpts

Monday 9th March 2026 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Merron (Lab)]

The noble Lord does not have to wait because, in addition to the work by the noble Baroness, Lady Casey, which, as I have said, is independent, she has set out immediate recommendations, which we are working on. We have already made commitments on the disabled facilities grant for housing, so that people can stay in their own homes. We have announced a £500 million investment in the first ever fair pay agreement, and we are uplifting social care allowances to support disabled people more than they ever have been. Those are just some examples, and I would be very happy to direct the noble Lord to other ways in which we are already taking action.

[The Lord Bishop of Norwich]

My Lords, in 2023, the Archbishops’ Commission on Reimagining Care encouraged a conversation not only between provider and recipient but with all those involved in care and support, to create rounded and fulfilled lives. That includes the voluntary sector, community groups and faith groups, which provide befriending and bereavement support and acts of worship in care homes. What plans does the Casey commission have to ensure that all parties participate in the national conversation mandated in its terms of reference?

[Baroness Merron (Lab)]

As I said earlier, that will be a matter for the noble Baroness, Lady Casey. But I have every confidence that all the groups the right reverend Prelate referred to will be included, not least because the noble Baroness and the secretariat have already met, travelled widely and had many conversations, including with some 400 groups and individuals, focusing particularly on those with lived experience.