Westmorland and Furness residents are being urged to share their views in The Big Conversation on Care, a major national engagement programme launched by Baroness Casey of Blackstock to shape the future of adult social care in England.
Adult social care plays a vital role in supporting older people, adults with disabilities, unpaid carers and families across Westmorland and Furness every day. Through The Big Conversation on Care, people are being asked to consider important questions about how care should be delivered in the future, who should be eligible for support, the role of families and communities, and how the system should be funded.
The conversation is open to everyone and residents can take part online at caseycommission.co.uk/bigconversation.
Councillor Patricia Bell, Westmorland and Furness Council's Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: “Adult social care affects most of us at some point in our lives. Whether we receive support ourselves, care for a family member or friend, work in the sector, or contribute through our taxes, the care system plays a vital role in communities across Westmorland and Furness, helping people to stay independent, safe and in the place they call home for as long as possible.
“We welcome this opportunity for everyone to have their say on an issue that affects people across the country. It builds on the engagement work we've already been doing locally, asking people across Westmorland and Furness to share their experiences and views on the future of adult social care.
“Like councils nationwide, we face growing pressures from an ageing population, increasing costs and a rising demand for adult social care services. In Westmorland and Furness, providing care across a large and rural area brings additional challenges for both residents and service providers.
“This review is an important opportunity to help shape the future of adult social care on a national scale, and I strongly urge everyone to take part and ensure the voices of Westmorland and Furness are heard.”
The Big Conversation is part of the work being undertaken by the Independent Commission on Adult Social Care, also known as the Casey Commission. Led by Baroness Casey, the conversation aims to engage with up to one million people across England. The first phase of engagement focuses on the values and principles that should underpin the care system and who should receive support. A second phase will explore issues including funding and how long-term reform could be delivered.
The Big Conversation will conclude by April 2027. Baroness Casey has agreed to provide the Independent Commission’s recommendations by summer 2027.
Residents can find out more and take part by visiting caseycommission.co.uk/bigconversation.