Health and Adult Social Care Reform

Sarah Dyke Excerpts

Monday 6th January 2025 Commons Chamber

[Wes Streeting]

Of the many great possibilities and opportunities facing this country are our strengths in life sciences and medical technology. If we can combine the strength of our scientific and technological base with the ingenuity and care of our NHS staff and our ability to deliver at scale with the model that was designed in 1948, which is well served to take us well into the 21st century, the sky is the limit for what we can achieve. We will have to support staff through that revolution. I appreciate that for many staff working in the NHS today they would be grateful if the machine simply turned on when they turned up for work.

[Sarah Dyke (Glastonbury and Somerton) (LD)]

I am concerned about the lengthy timescale set out in the social care review, with the second phase not due to report until 2028. The care system is broken and it particularly affects rural areas such as Glastonbury and Somerton. For example, a resident in Castle Cary, a 105-year-old D-day veteran, is facing moving care homes due to high care costs. This will have a negative impact on his health, wellbeing and quality of life. What actions will the Secretary of State take in the near term to reform the social care sector and provide older people with the dignity they deserve?