Andy Burnham has branded the existing social care system's regulations as "shameful and wrong." The Prime Minister has directed criticism at current rules which see people having their "home, pension and savings" consumed by care costs.
He warns that without reform, the problem will "break" the NHS. The politician shared his thoughts on social media while providing an update on his previously announced proposals for changes to the State Pension triple lock and the funding of elderly care.
Criticism of Current System
He says: "I think it is shameful and wrong that millions of older people are seeing everything they have worked for - their home, pension and savings - wiped out by care bills. If we carry on as we are, our broken social care system will break our NHS too."
He adds: "Every day, older people who should be receiving support at home or in care settings are unnecessarily admitted to A&E. Meanwhile, hospital beds are occupied by people who are fit to leave but have nowhere to go because the care they need is not in place."
National Care Service Plans
"We cannot go on like this. It is time for fundamental change. That's why I want to build a National Care Service."
"This will be based on NHS principles: everyone contributes and everyone is covered. It will give people peace of mind about their care needs and protect what they have built up over their lifetime."
Speaking at the Labour Party conference, Andy Burnham announced that should his party secure victory at the next election, scheduled for 2029, it will reform how rises are calculated, reports the Mirror. Unveiling details of the proposal, which would take effect in 2030, he explained the State Pension will no longer increase by whichever is highest of 2.5%, average earnings or inflation, but will instead rise by the highest of inflation and 2.5%.
Funding and Public Reaction
He stated the funds saved from these modifications will be directed towards establishing a National Care Service. This initiative will be designed to address the costs families face for care while also alleviating pressures on the NHS.
In his Facebook post he has now confirmed the new service will be funded by adjusting the triple lock. He added: "We will still guarantee that the state pension rises every year by at least inflation or 2.5%, whichever is higher."
"It will also increase by more than this when necessary to ensure that it holds its value relative to average earnings. This means that if inflation spikes, pensioners will be protected."
"If wages rise, pensioners will share in that rising prosperity, with the state pension tracking earnings over time. Nobody's pension will ever go down. This is a better deal for older people."
"A state pension that rises every year. No care charges. And a high-quality National Care Service to give peace of mind in later life. That is how we bring back hope to Britain."
His post garnered more than 23,000 likes and 10,800 comments, with a significant number of users expressing support for his proposals. Several offered their own suggestions to assist with the transition.
Clare said: "Basically a good idea, but to ease the burden on pensioners now raise the tax threshold to £15,000 as let's face it most are working extra to cover the cost of living which in turn reduces part time work for 16 -18 year old."
Ray added: "Great! What about raising tax thresholds to put more money in people's pockets?" while Geraldine said: "How about stopping child benefit for high earning households. It's not right that one parent earning £60k doesn't get it but a household with two parents earning £59,999 each do."
Jill also put forward an alternative viewpoint, suggesting: "Just lower the retirement age to 60 or less. Opens up job opportunities for the younger generation. Also gives a huge relief to the NHS/Social Services /childcare/care for elderly relatives. Seems obvious to me."
"Your parent needs to get to or needs support to make an appointment, needs her bed changed. Your kids /grandchildren need you. Can't do it because you are working! Family support is essential l."
"I want to attend to my elderly parents every need and educate/love/have fun with my grandchildren. Or I can sit at a computer, not understanding the fast pace of technology and block a job that a younger person would embrace. And also juggling time/commitments etc. Andy Burnham think differently, I believe you can do this."
