Andy Burnham proposes NHS-style social care system for England

Andy Burnham has announced plans to introduce universal access to free social care services across England, a policy he intends to present to voters at the next general election. Speaking with the BBC, Burnham described his vision as a system where “everyone contributes, everyone is covered.” While he acknowledged that funding such reforms could involve tax increases, he recognized that this might be unpopular or difficult for some to accept.

Burnham is set to outline his comprehensive vision soon, with advice expected from Baroness Casey, who has been tasked with reviewing the social care system and recommending the best approach forward. However, specific financial details regarding how these changes would be funded have yet to be fully disclosed. Adult social care currently offers support to help individuals live independently, often providing assistance at home. Unlike the NHS, which is free at the point of use, social care in England is means-tested; people with savings above £23,250 are ineligible for council-funded support. This contrasts with the arrangements in Scotland and Wales, where eligibility rules differ.

During an interview on BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, Burnham emphasized that the new system would be modeled on NHS principles to ensure fairness and accessibility. He highlighted that free personal care is already available elsewhere in the UK and argued that it is unfair for people in England to be excluded from such provisions. He stressed the importance of progressing thoughtfully, asserting that the reforms need to be “done carefully, without putting extra strain on the public purse.” When confronted with estimates suggesting universal free social care could cost taxpayers around £18 billion annually, Burnham disputed the figure, stating, “It’s not that high.” He also drew attention to the current financial burden individuals face and the strain on the NHS caused by delays in hospital discharges due to inadequate social care availability.

Burnham revealed that his proposal would necessitate some form of contribution from all individuals, though the method might differ from the NHS funding model. He mentioned that Baroness Casey’s recommendations would be the subject of cross-party discussions aimed at building consensus. Although initially set to present her review in 2028, Burnham requested that her report be expedited to next summer. He noted that any reforms would need to respect the existing manifesto commitments, which include no increases to national insurance, income tax, or VAT during the current Parliament. The prime minister affirmed, “I will develop a very clear plan and I will put that plan to the public at a general election and that will be where the plan gets tested and people will then be able to decide.”

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