We responded to the Change NHS consultation

03/12/2024

The Change NHS consultation is part of the Government’s 10-year health plan. While there is no plans for consultation for a similar 10-year plan for social care, we felt it imperative to respond as an organisation, to lay out the key things that must be addressed in the 10-year health plan for those accessing care

We see a significant opportunity to improve early detection of illnesses and address the causes of ill health among older people, especially those accessing adult social care. A major challenge is the inconsistent involvement of older people and their chosen representatives in care planning. Trusted contacts, such as family carers, play a critical role in spotting early signs of ill health, particularly for individuals with communication or capacity challenges. However, their input is often restricted, leading to detrimental impacts on health and wellbeing.

Another issue is the fragmented nature of health and care services. Many older people in care homes face difficulties accessing basic healthcare services like GPs and dentists, allowing preventable health issues to escalate. The lack of alignment between health and care systems further exacerbates these issues, with delays and miscommunications contributing to missed opportunities for early intervention. A stronger focus on integrated care systems, alongside increased local collaboration, would be key to bridging these gaps.

Workforce challenges within the social care sector also hinder the ability to detect health issues early. High staff turnover and inconsistent training prevent the establishment of ongoing relationships that enable early identification of changes in health. Investing in workforce training and fair compensation would reduce turnover and equip staff to recognise early warning signs of ill health, creating a more robust and preventive care environment.

To address these challenges, we propose short-term policy changes, such as implementing a legal right to a Care Supporter and enhancing information-sharing protocols between health and care providers. Medium-term priorities include workforce investment and ensuring residents in care settings have access to essential healthcare services. These steps would significantly enhance the ability to spot illnesses early and improve outcomes for older people.