Social care costs for working-age and lifelong disabled individuals in the UK could soar to £17 billion by the year 2030, according to projections highlighted by the County Councils Network (CCN). Although this group represents about 40% of all adult social care service users, a significant portion of council budgets, almost two-thirds (63%), were allocated to their care in the year up to March. The CCN warned that without increased funding, the proposed National Care Service could be nothing more than an “empty slogan.”
The CCN report revealed that the majority of the 40% mentioned are individuals under 65 years old, including older people who have lived with a disability throughout their lives. The rising costs of providing care for this group have been primarily driven by the complexity and type of care needed rather than a surge in the number of people requiring support. The analysis conducted by the CCN projected a substantial increase in costs for local authorities in England, estimating a rise of around 50% to £17 billion by 2030.
Last year, the costs of caring for working-age adults and those with lifelong disabilities amounted to nearly £11 billion, surpassing the £6 billion spent on older adults with physical disabilities and dementia. The report underscored the need to focus on this demographic, citing their significant contributions and the challenges they face. It pointed out that many of these individuals end up in costly and sometimes inappropriate residential placements, which not only strain council resources but also curtail the independence of care recipients.
The CCN spokesperson for adult social care, Martin Tett, emphasized the importance of recognising the needs and challenges faced by working-age and lifelong disabled adults. He highlighted that a substantial number of individuals in this group are placed in expensive residential settings that do not align with their best interests. Tett stressed the necessity of directing attention and resources towards these individuals to ensure the quality and safety of support services.
Jackie O’Sullivan, the executive director of strategy and influence at learning disability charity Mencap, expressed concern over the financial implications outlined in the report. She noted the growing demand for adult social care and the lack of adequate funding and provisions available to those in need. O’Sullivan emphasised the vital role of support services in enabling young adults to transition into independent living and participate fully in their communities.
The Local Government Association (LGA) echoed these concerns, highlighting the misconception that social care services primarily cater to older individuals. In reality, a significant proportion of individuals requiring such care are younger, working-age adults with disabilities. David Fothergill, chairman of the LGA’s community wellbeing board, emphasised the urgent need for a tailored approach to supporting this demographic and called for increased funding and reform efforts to address the challenges they face.
A Government spokesperson acknowledged the inadequacies of the existing social care system and committed to working closely with the sector to enhance support for working-age disabled adults across the UK. The Government has allocated at least £600 million in new social care funding, along with an £86 million increase for the Disabled Facilities Grant, as part of broader efforts to bolster support for local councils. Additionally, reforms aimed at improving employment support and flexibility in health-related benefits are intended to facilitate greater independence and participation in paid work for individuals requiring care.
In conclusion, the projected rise in social care costs for working-age and lifelong disabled individuals underscores the need for targeted funding and reforms to ensure the provision of quality, sustainable care services. The emphasis on addressing the unique challenges faced by this demographic and promoting their independence and inclusion in society is crucial for the development of a more equitable and supportive care system in the UK.