Care in Crisis
Published on 06 March 2014 09:00 AM
Commenting on the publication today of an Age UK report that shows the care system in England is in crisis, Age Cymru's Head of Policy and Public Affairs Graeme Francis says:
"We must provide high quality social care services to the people who need it.
"In Wales, with our population ageing more rapidly than that of anywhere else in the UK, we clearly have to get the way we provide social care right.
"Increasing numbers of older people are reporting that their social care packages are being cut to 15-20 minute calls.
"Some have to choose between going to the toilet and getting something to eat during their care visits.
"We've even heard of people having to take a cold bath because there isn't time for the boiler to heat up when their carer is with them.
"The Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Bill currently progressing through the National Assembly is seeking to reform the way social care is provided in Wales.
"It is vital that the Welsh Government also ensures that it invests adequate resources required to provide high quality social care to the people who need it.
"If this is not the case, older people who have contributed to society throughout their lives will be left to fend for themselves when they need care and support."