On Friday 16th November 2023 The Association of Directors of Adult Social Services (ADASS) published the second of two reports summarising data from ADASS’ Autumn Survey of Directors of Adult Social Services.

Responding, Helen Walker, chief executive at Carers UK, said:

"It’s devastating to read the new ADASS report which is predicting further cuts to social care as we go into the winter months.

"Behind every person waiting for care support, or to have their care needs assessed, there is often an unpaid carer. It’s unacceptable that families are being placed in a position where they have very little choice about having to provide many hours of care - impacting on their health and wellbeing, employment opportunities and household finances.

"Unpaid carers have been under huge pressure for some time, bearing the brunt of the pandemic, not being able to rely on services because they’ve not returned to former levels, and the cost-of-living crisis. What they want is good quality care services and a proper night’s sleep – so that they receive some respite from the intensity of their caring roles.  Our recent State of Caring report showed a mental health emergency amongst unpaid carers: almost three quarters (73%) whose mental health is bad or very bad continue to care despite feeling at breaking point.

"Carers deserve better. The Government must deliver a robust and sustainable funding settlement for social care in the coming autumn statement."