Following last week’s annual conference, the Welsh Local Government Association (WLGA) has written to ministers about the future delivery of social care in Wales.
The letter details a shared local government long-term vision for social care developed by WLGA and ADSS Cymru in conjunction with key local government representatives, including Solace Wales, HR Directors, and the Society of Welsh Treasurers, along with Social Care Wales. It demonstrates council’s willingness and commitment to work in partnership with Government, and other stakeholders, in examining how we can transform our social care services leading to improved outcomes for citizens.
The ambition is to create a resilient health and social care system that enhances citizens’ independence and well-being. Whilst we acknowledge the difficulties posed by the current financial climate, in order to achieve this vision, there is a critical need for investment in our local government services. This requires action by both the UK and Welsh Government to ensure that sustainable funding flows from Westminster that enables Welsh Government to invest in vital local services.
Cllr Huw David, WLGA spokesperson for Health and Social Care said:
“The financial pressures faced by local government and social services cannot be overstated. Overspending on social services in the last financial year alone amounted to an estimated £93m, with local authorities drawing approximately £193m from reserves.
“Furthermore, a severe recruitment and retention crisis is affecting the health, social care, and voluntary sectors. Urgent action is needed to ensure that the workforce is valued, enjoys parity with NHS workers, and receives appropriate remuneration. The demographic changes, cost of living, workforce challenges, and inflationary pressures being experienced across health and social care means there is a need for substantial investment and a re-focussed approach.
“The proposed local government vision emphasizes the need for increased investment in home and community support that will keep individuals safe and independent, with access to rapid treatment or crisis support when required. By focusing on providing care in the right place at the right time, the aim is to create more efficient and effective services. For children and families, the vision advocates investing in preventative, universal, and early help services to prevent problems from escalating.”
WLGA calls for collaboration among local leaders, communities, and partners across sectors, including health, housing, businesses and the wider public sector to transform our model of health and social care, prioritising prevention and community-based support.
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