Adult care needs immediate change not just long-term reform

Evidence shows that older people find the UK care system to be unclear, unfair and unsustainable, and this is something that needs to be addressed immediately. Earlier this year we published a number of costed reforms that could make a big difference very quickly to the UK care system, whilst long term reform is being considered.

Essentially, people need to be given more clarity on what the state is offering, a clearer definition between health care and social care, and more robust and helpful advice.

It is also vital that the views of everyone affected by the adult social care system - both now and in the future - are taken on board, and that the 'unheard' voices are listened to. Over the next five years, JRF's 'Better Life' programme will also look at how life can be improved for older people with high support needs, whether in residential care, living in housing with care schemes, or remaining in their own homes.

We know that difficult spending decisions are going to have to be made in the current economic climate. However, it is crucial that the needs of the increasing number of older people remain high on the agenda. It is important for all political parties to commit to the reform of the care system to ensure real, lasting change.

Julia Unwin, Chief Executive of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation