Nick Sanderson, CEO of Audley Villages
Brits are advocates of social care reform, with over half of (52%) UK adults believing there needs to be more options for those needing care in later life, and the same proportion calling for more financial support for care costs, according to new research from Audley Villages.
- Over 55s are keener to see changes being made to the UK’s social care system, with 59% of over 55s wanting to see more options for those needing care, and 60% wanting more financial support.
- 42% of the UK believe there should be more care services available to avoid unnecessary trips to hospital, increasing to half (50%) of over 55s.
- A third (34%) of over 55s say that they would do anything to not move into a care home.
- When thinking about their later life and any potential care needed, three fifths (62%) of over 55s would prefer to stay in their home and not have to move if they need care. Perhaps unsurprisingly then, two fifths (42%) of UK adults believe that there needs to be more housing with care options, increasing to almost half (47%) of over 55s.
- A third (34%) think the Government needs to support more active recruitment of carers in the UK.
Nick Sanderson, CEO of Audley Villages, commented: “Time and time again the UK Government has missed the opportunity to reform the broken social care system, and now people are desperate for change. Residential care should be a last resort for people as they get older, rather than feeling like it’s the only option available. The focus needs to be on providing more appropriate housing options for older people, so that they can retain independence and remain in their own home as they age, while being able to access care and wellbeing services. This will keep people healthier and happier for longer and take the pressure off overstretched care services.”