Two fathers take on a near-crumbling UK social care system

The number of people receiving respite care has fallen by more than a third over the last seven years, according to a report released tomorrow from the health think tank, The King's Fund, seen by this programme.

Many charities and care providers say that respite is a critical part of the social care system, helping family members who are sometimes looking after wives, husbands or children 24 hours a day.

Our Economics Correspondent Helia Ebrahimi reports from the South West of England on two parents trying to protect respite care in their area.

[AtheistEve]

Not only should there be more respite care homes, and all of them FOC, every person who cares for another adult 24/7 all year round, should get 4 weeks paid leave per year. They’re working more than a full-time job _and_ it’s unpaid.

[lolaxdios]

Sometimes I wonder how a rich country such as the UK can be so cruel and selfish in social policies. It really astonishes me

[ab]

Again austerity and the tories. People need to notice what's happening to every council... so where's our money going?

[peachmelba]

I cared for my severely learning disabled sister with no respite in 14 years...at one point I was also caring for my mum with dementia at the same time.... social services were a disgrace and this was before all these cuts....i sadly lost my sister due to medical negligence...my heart goes out to all unpaid you are the invisible army that holds everything together with no thanks or recognition.

[ludovician]

I truly appreciate this gentlemen's candor.

[iofish__]

phenomenal reporting. A really grounded and down to earth look at a nationwide crisis

[GoingtoHecq]

What's funny is that all the money in the economy seems to be held by all the rich people who find ways to skim off of other people's work. They seem to want to take everyone's money that is needed for life.

[AnthonyD-yyin]

The UK as a whole is crumbling. Very sad to witness... 😐😐😐

[Siejkayolanda]

I work in Devon with similar families who face the same challenges. The figures are sadly increasing 😢

[uzi_Justice]

My problem is the complete reverse. The council is trying to force me to have respite care because I haven't had a day off in 4 years. But because my mum is extremely violent, they want to put her on a ward with other patients who are also extremely violent. Where there's a good chance she's going to get attacked or she's going to attack somebody and spend a week in a padded cell.

If you are being threatened with having your power of attorney taken away because you won't follow stupid advice. With a massive smile on your face, tell them you're going to enjoy fighting them in court. It made them back down instantly the last three times they threaten me.😊

[OllieX]

The past 10 or so years were critical for investing and developing the UK economy, but the Tories ploughed on with austerity.

Now, without sturdy infrastructure, UK is crumbling when facing several global & national shockwaves. But will future governments learn or are we doomed to crumble further?

[ageautistic]

They need to sort out the special education system. The government needs holding accountable for its neglect towards SEND children. They have blood on their hands in some cases 😢

[oldskoolordie]

My ex neighbours were both disabled but the care system thought it was a good idea to house them in a two storey semi.
They bang about all night keeping me awake and it left me with no option but to take a break off work and move house.
It was the cheap option and they need proper care in assisted living.
My point is that lack of care and investment effects many more people than the people with disabilities.
How the f**k were they allowed to live like that without proper assessment? My conclusion is the system is badly broken.

[Oliver]

Millions funding wars…… leave its own people suffering..

[kellykreqeli]

I look after my son who is 20 who is on the autistic spectrum and has a list of mental health conditions as well as my who I help with my father who is 76 with diabetes and lost my mother in 2020 and almost died himself in 2009
And I also work in special educational needs I never get a break and I have health issues myself and get no help with social care but I do it because it care about what I do and for the people I care for

[kennethvenezia]

Well, there is only one thing to do. We must cut the taxes of the richest 1% by 40%. This is the answer to all the problems that face us today. If things don't improve, then cut the taxes on the same people by 10% more. Oh yes, and don't forget to vote tory...at least once, more if you can manage it.

[Victoria-dknv]

My worry is the government reopens institutions. as it's a cheaper model of care. 😢 Old school style

[sonyashas]

We are having more and more third world politics

[sonyashas]

Religions should stop being charities so enough fund is available for the councils to look after everyone.

[catzov]

Increasing tax closer to 50% is how UK can survive! Yes it will be tough but how else can you help Zelenski, Navalny wife & refugee folks?

Please stop pretending there are no cheap food options - use Aldi & food banks. Collect fruit from the streets.