Laura Sharman 16 October 2020

COVID 'magnifying' health and care inequalities

The coronavirus pandemic has ‘exacerbated’ existing problems in social care and magnified health inequalities, a report has warned today.

The annual assessment of the state of health and social care in England by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) warns the pandemic has highlighted the long-standing need for reform, investment and workforce planning in adult social care.

It praised how quickly changes were made to the way care is delivered during the pandemic, with services developing new procedures in a matter of days.

However, it warned new ways of delivering services must not disadvantage anyone, and health and care services must be designed around people’s needs.

Ian Trenholm, chief executive of CQC, said: ‘COVID is magnifying inequalities across the health and care system – a seismic upheaval which has disproportionately affected some more than others and risks turning fault lines into chasms.

’As we adjust to a COVID age, the focus must be on shaping a fairer health and care system – both for people who use services, and for those who work in them.’ Richard Murray, chief executive of The King’s Fund, criticised the Government for failing to act on long-standing promises for reform.

He said: ‘It is time for a reset in public policy to tackle deeply entrenched health inequalities. As health and care staff brace for the second wave of COVID-19, ministers and national leaders must initiate a discussion about the fundamental changes that will create a healthier and fairer society beyond the pandemic.’

Trade union Unison called for an immediate pay and jobs boost in social care and the NHS to help boost morale.

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: 'We are committed to supporting our health and care services as they respond to the pandemic and continue to provide high quality care for all.

'We’re investing significantly in mental health and expanding primary and community services to give two million more people – including those with learning disabilities and autism – access to vital support that will improve their quality of life.

'We are strengthening urgent and emergency care – including by upgrading A&Es ahead of winter, and we’re delivering on our commitment to build 40 hospitals by 2030. The NHS is getting a record cash funding boost through the Long Term Plan, and we are looking at range of proposals to put the social care sector on a sustainable footing for the future.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Democratic Services, Elections & Monitoring Officer

Harborough District Council
Grade 12 £67,236 – £71,223 plus £3000pa Statutory Officer Allowance
We are looking for an accomplished and proactive leader for our vacant post of Head of Democratic Services & Elections Market Harborough, Leicestershire
Recuriter: Harborough District Council

Social Worker

Durham County Council
£35,412 - £39,152 (pre-progression) / £40,777 - £45,091 (post-progression)
We are looking for social workers who have completed the assessed and supported year in employment to join our Families First teams, working with our Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Social Worker

Durham County Council
Grade 9 £35,412 - £39,152 (Pre-Progression) / Grade 11 £40,777 - £45,091 (Post-Progression)
Are you a nurturing social worker passionate about supporting parents so that children can remain with their birth family?     This could be the right Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Administrative Officer

Durham County Council
Grade 4 £25,583 - £26,824
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Administrative Officer to join our busy, friendly team, supporting Children and Young People’s Services. 1 x Spennymoor
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Lunchtime Play Worker

Durham County Council
£24,796 pro rata
Lunchtime Play Worker Grade 1 £24,796 pro rata Part Time - 6.25 hour per week, Monday – Friday
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner