Reform UK's administration at Kent County Council (KCC) is facing criticism over plans to cut adult social care services, which could affect nearly 19,000 vulnerable residents. The proposed cuts target 'navigation and wellbeing services' that provide debt advice, counselling, and community activities for older and disabled adults on the edge of needing full care packages.
Labour MP for Dartford, Jim Dickson, said providers such as Involve Kent, Imago Community, and SEK have been told their funding will end in February. He described the cuts as 'short-sighted', warning they could lead to increased costs for the NHS and the council itself, as people lose preventive support and require expensive care packages.
A study by Involve Kent found its work led to significant reductions in A&E attendance and acute care needs. KCC estimates the redesigned services, focusing on those with medium or higher support needs, will save £3.45 million per year. However, a consultation under the previous administration saw 80% of respondents oppose the plan.
Opposition leader Antony Hook warned that 'everything is in danger' of cuts, citing a leaked document showing a £60 million unresolved gap in KCC's finances for 2026/27, which councillors suggest could reach £100 million. A council spokesperson dismissed the figures as 'pure speculation' ahead of the draft budget.
