Commissioner echoes calls for action to tackle social care pressures in Wales

Responding to the publication of Care Inspectorate Wales’ 2022-23 Annual Report, Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, Heléna Herklots CBE, said:

“It is positive to see from CIW’s Annual Report that inspectors consistently find most services are providing good, safe care for those who use them, which includes many older people.

“However, the report also makes clear that the care system is facing significant and ongoing pressures which are impacting upon people who need care and support, particularly the increasing number of individuals with complex needs.

“It is deeply concerning that these pressures seem to be undermining people’s rights to have their needs assessed, and to have choice and control about the care they receive, as well as placing greater pressure on unpaid carers, many of whom already face huge challenges.

“I support the calls for action included in the report, which reflect my own calls to tackle issues with recruitment and retention by improving pay and conditions for care staff, and to reduce pressure on services through preventative approaches.

“It is crucial that the Welsh Government considers the concerns set out in the Chief Inspector’s report and works with local authorities to ensure that people can access the care and support they may need and, even more importantly, that people’s rights are protected and upheld.”

ENDS