Government neglect of care has led to low level of public satisfaction, says UNISON

Commenting on the findings from the British Social Attitudes Survey, published by the King’s Fund and the Nuffield Trust which show falling levels of public satisfaction with social care, UNISON head of social care Gavin Edwards said:

“The government has stood back and watched as social care slides further into crisis. No wonder satisfaction levels are plummeting.

“Generally, staff aren’t treated well and with poverty pay rates all that’s usually on offer, many don’t hang around for long.

“Carers are often left to get on with looking after their relatives or friends, without getting the support they need. And when the person they care for gets to the point where extra help is needed, most have no idea where to turn.

“Navigating the care system is beyond stressful and not for the faint-hearted. But it shouldn’t be like this.

“Only a national care service and a fair pay agreement for staff can start to turn things around. But that’s not a five-minute job. The care sector is at its lowest ebb, and it’ll take a considerable effort to get it back on its feet.”