Calls made for social care reform to relieve financial pressure

Care homes are taken advantage of by unscrupulous energy brokers who inflate energy prices in contracts. This is one of the key issues Energy Solicitors Limited highlights that should be addressed as a part of a care reform to cope with the rising demand.

Sir Andrew Dilnot – the economist, who was the architect of plans for a care costs cap more than a decade ago – has slammed the decision to delay Baroness Casey’s newly announced commission until 2028, calling the wait "completely unnecessary." He insists the Government could outline its plans by the end of this year, branding the three-year delay an “inappropriate length of time”.

Last year, Sir Andrew told North East regional weekly The QT more urgent action is required. 

“It’s an area where we’re letting people down — we’re letting down not just the people who are being cared for, but also the people doing the caring both formally and informally,” he said. 

Responding to the announcement of Baroness Casey’s commission, Sir Andrew was blunt. “It’s blindingly… bleedin’ obvious”. He further highlights how social care funding and support need to be prioritised and the massive sector affecting most of us in our lifetimes is ignored.

Senior Partner of Energy Solicitors Limited Victoria Myers echoed the urgency, warning the commission's findings will come too late for many care home operators already struggling with financial pressures.

“We see firsthand how broken the system is,” Myers said. “Unscrupulous energy firms and brokers are piling unnecessary costs onto care homes that are already stretched to their limits. By holding these firms accountable and recovering mis-sold funds, we’re helping ease immediate financial pressures for those working tirelessly in social care. Action is needed now, not in three years’ time.”

Every penny counts when it comes to maintaining the experience of your residents and it's increasingly tricky to balance budgets as a care home owner or manager. Energy Solicitors Limited is working tirelessly behind the scenes to free up thousands of pounds owed to care homes as a result of mis-sold energy contracts including hidden broker commissions. We are hosting a FREE  webinar on 30th January, with energy litigation specialists highlighting real-life examples. The webinar will help you spot broker red flags, identify over-charging and save thousands of pounds in hidden fees. Register now.