Calls for reform of England’s social care system have been thrust back into the spotlight after Labour leader Andy Burnham called for action, stating:
“Let’s have the courage to fix the big things that politics has neglected, like social care…”
Whilst this is a positive and encouraging acknowledgement of the challenges facing the social care sector, it is unfortunately not anything that hasn’t already been stated before by various prime ministers and governments over the last 30 years, and no change has occurred to date.
As part of this wider debate, the Casey Commission is currently reviewing adult social care in England and exploring long-term reforms, including proposals for a National Care Service. The review is expected to consider how local authority-funded social care works alongside NHS-funded healthcare services.
For many families, however, the most important question is not what care funding might look like in the future, but what support is available today.
NHS Continuing Healthcare remains available now
NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) is a package of care funded entirely by the NHS for individuals with significant ongoing healthcare needs. Yet many people are unaware that it exists or mistakenly assume they would not qualify.
CHC often sits at the point where health and social care overlap, which can make the system difficult to understand. Families frequently tell us they are unsure whether their loved one’s care needs should be funded by the NHS or by the local authority, particularly when care costs are substantial.
While the Casey Commission’s work may shape the future of care funding, its recommendations are not expected until 2028. Any subsequent reforms would likely take time to implement.
That means individuals with significant healthcare needs should continue to be assessed under the existing NHS Continuing Healthcare framework. There is no need to wait for future reforms if support may already be available now.
Understanding your rights today
Tim Davies, CEO of Compass CHC, said:
“We welcome the commitment of the new Labour leader to reforming adult social care. Many of the families we support have experienced difficulty navigating the NHS Continuing Healthcare system. Too many individuals remain unaware that CHC funding exists, or mistakenly believe they wouldn’t be eligible. This lack of clarity prevents people from accessing care they need and are entitled to.”
Too many families are paying for care unnecessarily or struggling to access the support available to them simply because they don’t know where to turn for advice.
Understanding your rights under the current system is just as important today as it will be after any future reforms.
Don’t delay seeking advice
If your loved one has substantial health needs, they may already be entitled to an NHS Continuing Healthcare assessment.
Future changes to social care funding could still be several years away, but the support available through CHC exists now. Seeking advice early can help you understand your options, identify potential eligibility, and make informed decisions about care funding.
If you’re unsure whether your loved one’s needs may qualify for NHS Continuing Healthcare, our team is here to help. Contact Compass CHC today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Unsure if you or a loved one qualifies?
If you think you or a loved one may be eligible for CHC funding, don’t delay. We’re here to guide you through every step.
Submit an enquiry to get started.
