On July 3rd, SMA UK joined the Care and Support Alliance (CSA) at a parliamentary event designed to emphasise the urgent need for improved access to social care for disabled people and those living with long-term conditions.
Held in Portcullis House in Westminster, the ‘Show Us You Care’ event invited MPs and members of the CSA to discuss the impact that inadequate levels of care and support services have on people’s lives. It explained the Casey Commission, which is currently reviewing the need for a broader social care system that works for everyone. The current provisions in place aren’t just a general policy failure; they are having a direct impact on people’s independence and quality of life. Everyone shared a consensus that the current system doesn’t work, and something needs to change.
I attended the event alongside Portia from SMA UK, and Jack, who lives with SMA. Jack spoke about the dramatic reduction in his care package and how this has meant he has no choice but to privately fund portions of his care. His experience seems to be just one example of the many gaps in the social care provision that go unaddressed.
Despite there being attendees from many different charities and organisations, we found it difficult to engage a significant number of attending MP’s. Whilst some parliamentarians listened to our stories and acknowledged the urgent need for a review, many left after just a few minutes – missing the opportunity to gain a full understanding of the current issues. The lack of meaningful engagement demonstrates the importance of continued advocacy to gain long-term commitment from policymakers.
Anna Dixon hosted the event and described the need for a care system that is:
- Backed by long-term, reliable funding
- Person-centred with criteria designed for individual needs
- Flexible: plans can change as people’s needs adapt
- Accessible: the support is available when and where it’s needed
Whilst the engagement was mixed, the event was an important step in raising awareness of the CSA and emphasising the voices of disabled people and those with long-term conditions. If you would like to get involved:
- Speak to your MP: write to them and explain the importance of a reform of social care by sharing your personal experiences, and ask them to engage with the work of the Casey Commission.
