Commenting on the announcement about social care reforms and an independent commission, Policy and Public Affairs Lead for England at the Royal College of Occupational Therapists, Joseph Brunwin, said:
‘Social care reform is long overdue, and we welcome the independent commission and consultation on a new national care service. Careful and long-term planning is essential to ensure lasting and effective social care reform. However, the government should also be looking at the quick wins to make improvements for the people relying on social care now.
‘Occupational therapists are involved with almost half of local authority referrals to social care, and over 3000 occupational therapists work within the social care system itself. They play a vital role in enabling people to live independently, reducing hospital discharge delays, and easing pressure on both the NHS and social care services.
'We’re encouraged by steps towards a more sustainable and person-centred social care system, but this must be backed up by urgent investment in the occupational therapy workforce so people can receive the care and support they need while long-term reforms take shape.
‘Investment in the social care workforce is critical, and more investment and more focus on recruitment and retention is vital. We look forward to working collaboratively with policymakers to support the development of a national care service that is both effective and achievable.’