SCIE media releases 2008

Confidence in care – SCIE’s response to the Caring Choices report

7 January 2008

The Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE) supports the publication of the Caring Choices report 'The future of care funding: Time for a change', published today.

As part of the coalition facilitating the consultation, SCIE has supported the national debate on funding for long-term care, with a particular interest in the implications for older people, the social care workforce and unpaid carers. The organisation argues that any new funding model must improve confidence in the care system and be communicated carefully.

Commenting on the Caring Choices report,Chief Executive of SCIE, Julie Jones, said:

“This consultation offers a serious contribution to the much-needed debate on funding. The current situation means that people struggle to understand the system and whether their money is being spent wisely. SCIE’s guidance on what works in social care helps commissioners and providers to develop efficient and effective care services. We are increasing our efforts to support both those who commission public services, and the carers and individuals who purchase their own services, with clearer guidance on what works and is good value.

“We all support a more personalised care system that offers choice, quality and value for money. People of all generations need better information so they can make crucial well-informed decisions about their future.

“Evidence suggests that most families expect to share some caring responsibilities. But this enormous contribution must never be overlooked. Support for carers must continue to be a priority in 2008.”

Media contact

Iris Steen | Director of Communications | T: 020 7089 7122 | Mobile: 07885 736 643 | Email: iris.steen@scie.org.uk