The prime minister plans to deliver a speech outlining accelerated efforts to establish a National Care Service, with social care reform positioned as a top priority. The initiative includes consideration of widespread exemptions from proposed immigration changes that would extend the time required for migrant workers to achieve settled status in the country.
Care sector organizations have raised concerns about the impact of Home Office plans to lengthen the path to indefinite leave to remain, which could particularly affect the care industry. The Home Office has issued approximately 200,000 health and care worker visas over the preceding five years, with additional numbers among dependants. Officials are reportedly considering applying exemptions to workers already employed in the sector while implementing the new rules for future entrants, though this decision may not be announced in the upcoming speech.
The government is examining short-term measures to ease pressure on social care providers, who have reported financial strain and difficulty fulfilling contracted services at current payment levels. Potential interventions include additional funding for the Better Care Fund and programs offering patients free short-term care following hospital discharge to prevent readmission to acute care settings.
The prime minister has commissioned an accelerated review into the sector’s structure and funding requirements. The review, originally scheduled to conclude in 2028, is being fast-tracked with possible completion by year’s end. Officials are consulting on fundamental questions regarding eligibility for state-funded care, the role of family caregiving, and individual financial responsibility for services. In England, individuals with assets below £23,250 receive state-funded care, while those with greater resources cover full costs themselves.
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