SIGOMA Chair welcomes commitment to adult social care reform

Posted on July 30, 2026

Following the Prime Minister’s announcement on adult social care reform, our Chair, Mayor Chris Cooke, has welcomed the recognition that urgent reform is needed. 

He calls for a long-term plan underpinned by sufficient, secure funding, with councils given the powers needed to deliver lasting change:

"It's welcome that the Prime Minister has recognised the urgency of social care by bringing forward Baroness Casey's report, committing to a greater focus on the workforce and seeking cross-party consensus on reform. Those are important steps, but our members will rightly be looking for action to follow."

 "We need a long-term plan that gives councils the funding certainty to meet rising demand, supports the care workforce and shifts the focus towards prevention and early intervention. The Government must also address the disconnect between health and social care. Too often people are left navigating fragmented services while local authorities are left managing the consequences. A more joined-up system would deliver better outcomes for residents and better value for taxpayers."

 "The Prime Minister is right to be honest that difficult decisions may be needed, but any debate about funding must also look at how existing resources are being used. Public money should be funding high-quality care for vulnerable people, not excessive profits. There are many excellent providers across the sector, but where profiteering exists, government must be prepared to act."

"Councils need stronger powers to shape local provision, improve accountability and ensure taxpayers are getting value for money. The Government must work with local authorities to build a care system which is fairer, sustainable, and fit for the future."