Majority Of Voters Will Make Social Care For Older People A Top Election Issue, New Survey Finds, UK

Main Category: Seniors / Aging
Article Date: 17 Jun 2008 - 2:00 PDT

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Two in three believe 'social care is in 'crisis'

The results of a Help the Aged poll released today show that 59 per cent of people intend to vote for a political party that prioritises social care for older people at the next election. *

Key issues around adult social care such as the gap between care and provision and quality of life in care homes have generated considerable debate in recent months. The Government has promised a Green Paper next Spring, but the Charity says today's results 'raise the stakes.'

The survey also found that two in three people believe 'politicians have neglected social care to the extent that it is now in crisis.' **

Paul Cann, Director of Policy at Help the Aged, said:

'These figures raise the stakes on adult social care - the issue looks to have achieved the same status as the perennial duo of schools and hospitals. More and more people are waking up to the crisis we face, and will vote for whomever they think will best steer a course out of the current mess. Social care has now become a decisive vote winner - or loser.

'Gordon Brown has stated that the system needs "fundamental reform", while the Department of Health admitted last month there could be a six billion pound funding gap in social care in England in 20 years' time. We desperately need to see a brave and bold Green Paper, that creates a fair and sustainable funding settlement for adult social care. There is a mounting clamour for change, and our research shows the public intend to make this known at the next election.'

As well as the clear majority of voters wanting to see adult social care prioritised, an overwhelming 81 per cent of respondents agreed that 'politicians must do more to inform people about social care for older people.' ***

Paul Cann continued:

'People need to know what their rights and responsibilities are within the realm of social care - all too often we only find out how things work once we need help.

'Everybody comes into contact with the system at some point in their lives, and, rich or poor, getting the care you need can be a daunting and complicated task. Given that all of us will be affected by it at some point, it's no wonder the issue has become so pivotal politically.'

Notes

ICM interviewed a random sample of 1003 adults telephone omnibus between 9th-11th May 2008. Surveys were conducted across the country and the results have been weighted to the profile of all adults. ICM is a member of the British Polling Council and abides by its rules. Further information at http://www.icmresearch.co.uk

When asked to what extent do you tend to agree or disagree with the following statements?

* 59 per cent agreed that 'a political party that prioritised social care for older people would get my vote at the next general

** 66 per cent agreed that 'politicians have neglected social care for older people in England to the extent that it is now in crisis'

*** 81 per cent agreed that 'politicians must do more to inform people about social care for older people

Right care, Right deal' is the new national campaign launched to build public awareness and support for the need for brave and innovative solutions for the social care system. With the Government indicating that social care is an urgent political priority, and in advance of the expected green paper later in 2008, the campaign combines three of the UK's largest charities working with and for older people and their families and carers, and will urge the government to renew its vision for the future of social care in England. Visit http://www.rightcare.org.uk

Help the Aged is the charity fighting to free disadvantaged older people in the UK and overseas from poverty, isolation, neglect and ageism. It campaigns to raise public awareness of the issues affecting older people and to bring about policy change. The Charity delivers a range of services: information and advice, home support and community living, including international development work. These are supported by its paid-for services and fundraising activities - which aim to increase funding in the future to respond to the growing unmet needs of disadvantaged older people. Help the Aged also funds vital research into the health issues and experiences of older people to improve the quality of later life.

Help the Aged urgently needs donations and support to help it in the increasingly challenging fight to free disadvantaged older people from poverty, isolation and neglect.

Help the Aged