Bryan HayUNISON has called for immediate action to address the critical state of health and social care, labelling the situation as a ‘doom loop’. This follows research from the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services, which highlighted the need for better funding in social care.
UNISON general secretary Christina McAnea commented, “The previous government was guilty of neglecting care. That’s why the sector is close to being overwhelmed. A lack of capacity in care sees many elderly people admitted to hospital only because there’s nowhere else for them to go. Others are discharged too soon as their beds are needed for sicker patients.”
McAnea emphasised that the cycle of inadequate care resources leading to hospital admissions, and premature discharges must be broken. “This doom loop won’t stop unless both health and care get the resources and the staff they need. The new government’s plans to introduce a fair pay agreement in care is the first sign that things are at last set to change,” she added.
The research underscores the urgency of addressing these systemic issues to ensure the elderly and vulnerable receive the care they need without unnecessary hospital admissions. UNISON’s call to action highlights the importance of sustained investment and policy changes to support the health and social care sectors.
