BASW response to Prime Minister’s announcement on Adult Social Care

BASW strongly endorses the vision for a preventative, person-centred National Care Service

The British Association of Social Workers welcomes the Prime Minister’s commitment to tackling the ongoing crisis in adult social care. Bringing forward Baroness Louise Casey’s review by a full year is a positive step that reflects the urgency this issue demands.

BASW strongly endorses the vision for a preventative, person-centred National Care Service that supports people to live independently at home wherever possible. We also welcome the immediate priority given to workforce reform - elevating the sector, expanding Fair Pay Agreements, and creating clear pathways into social care work for young people.

Crucially, as plans for a National Care Service take shape, social work must be recognised as a central player in reform. Social workers are uniquely skilled professionals who advocate tirelessly for people’s rights, navigate complex needs, and stand up for what is best for the people and families they support.

However, bold vision must be backed by clarity and resources:

Long-term, sustainable funding remains the crucial missing piece. Without clear commitments on how the National Care Service, preventative care, and workforce reform will be resourced, ambitious plans risk stalling.

Integration with health services is vital but BASW cautions against viewing social care primarily as a mechanism to prevent NHS collapse. Social care is an essential public service in its own right, not just a means of relieving hospital pressure.

Comment from Andrew Reece, BASW England Strategic Lead:

“The Prime Minister's commitment to break decades of political gridlock and accelerate the Casey Review shows this Government means business on social care.

“Social workers are human rights advocates on the frontline - fighting every day for people’s dignity, rights, and self-determination. For these ambitions to succeed, social work must be recognised as a core driver of reform, not an afterthought.

“BASW looks forward to joining the Big Conversation with Andy Burnham’s Government. We will champion bold, transformative solutions, including a 'Named Social Worker' guarantee for every older person to advocate for their needs, ensuring social work values remain at the heart of a reformed National Care Service.”