London Councils, Greater London’s local government association, are calling for funding parity with the NHS for adult social care.
According to London Councils, the underfunding of London’s adult social care has lead to a deficit of £130m across Greater London’s Councils, which is only expected to rise in coming years to £600m by 2025 unless investment is increased to meet demand.
Boroughs are urging ministers to use the Spending Review, coming 25th November, to address the funding shortfall which has been exacerbated by Covid-19.
Boroughs’ spending on adult social care has increased massively this year, particularly to boost PPE and staffing resources. In total, London boroughs expect to spend around £350 million extra on adult social care in 2020/21 due to Covid-19, equating to almost one third of their additional spending.
Cllr Damian White, London Councils’ Executive Member for Health & Care, said:
“Adult social care services have proved themselves essential in supporting so many vulnerable Londoners through the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We also know that adult social care plays a crucial role in keeping people out of hospital and relieving pressure on NHS services. The sector is an invaluable part of our health and care system – and that’s why it needs the same funding increases as the NHS.
“Providing assured, long-term investment in both health and social care is the best way of sustaining services and making sure Londoners receive the support they need in future years.”
