A new report by the King’s Fund has identified public misunderstanding and lack of engagement as a significant barrier to overdue social care reform, warning that politicians continue to avoid the issue without electoral consequence.
The analysis reveals that social care sits near the bottom of public policy priorities, despite satisfaction levels falling below those of any NHS service. Many people remain unaware of who provides care, how it is funded, and what it delivers.
The researchers highlight the importance of building cross-party political consensus, cautioning that social care is unlikely to become a vote-winner and risks remaining a vote-loser without sustained, coordinated advocacy, and better messaging that resonates with the public.
Homecare Association responds to King's Fund report on public attitudes to social care.
