Mind backs call for investment in social care

The public has sent a message that they are concerned about getting care if they or their loved ones can’t live on their own. One of the largest ever surveys of public attitudes to social care has revealed how many people rely on – or have a close family member that relies on – care to do tasks as basic as washing, eating or help paying bills and managing money.

But the YouGov survey of more than 4,500 people in England, commissioned by the Care and Support Alliance (CSA), shows only a quarter believe that if they need it, they will receive enough care that would allow them a good quality of life.

The CSA, of which Mind is a member, says that increasing demand coupled with chronic under-funding means fewer people are getting support.

Paul Farmer, Chief Executive of Mind, the mental health charity, said:
"Social care services are incredibly important in helping some people with mental health problems stay well and live independently in the community but many find it hard to access the support they need. Mental health problems are often hidden or have fluctuating symptoms and, in a cash-strapped system, people with mental health problems lose out because they struggle to demonstrate their need for care and support."

"Investment in social care for people with mental health problems would lead to savings to the wider welfare and healthcare systems, as people stay well and active in the community, are more likely to return to work and are less likely to require costly acute healthcare."