20 July 2010

Government unveils commission on care funding

Former Mencap chief executive Dame Jo Williams part of independent commission on social care reform

The government today (20 July) unveiled the independent commission that will advise on a new funding system for adult social care in England.

As promised by the government in May, the Commission on the Funding of Care and Support will consider a range of funding ideas. One of its main tasks will be to recommend how care and support costs can be met by a partnership between individuals and the state. It will report on its findings within a year.

The commission will be chaired by Andrew Dilnot, with two further commissioners including Dame Jo Williams – former chief executive of Mencap. The government called the commission the 'first step' to the long-awaited reform of adult social care.

Health Secretary Andrew Lansley said the new funding system must be sustainable, as an estimated 1.7 million more people will have care needs in 2020. "I want to build momentum on this reform and expect to see legislation in front of parliament next year," he said.

Mencap and other organisations making up the Care and Support Alliance welcomed the commission, but called for more clarity on "how these deliberations fit into the government's longer term plans for welfare reform."

Dame Jo Williams said: "I am very pleased to have this opportunity to help shape a way forward on one of the most significant issues facing society. I hope to be able to contribute towards finding an equitable and sustainable solution for future generations."

Read more about the commission and its role