Social care costs for working-age adults and those with a lifelong disability could reach £17bn by 2030, according to new research.
The analysis by the County Councils Network (CCN) and Newton found that while working-age adults make up just 40% of adult social care service users, they accounted for 63% of commissioned support last year.
The CCN urged the Government not to overlook this ‘forgotten’ group in its plans for a National Care Service.
The research found that the cost of providing care and support to working age adults and those with a lifelong disability was almost £11bn last year, compared to £6bn for older adults with a physical disability and dementia.
The report warned that increased complexity of needs, a substantial rise in placement costs, and ‘inappropriate and insufficient’ housing options would see costs continue to rise.
CCN adult social care spokesperson Martin Tett said: ‘For individuals and councils, the National Care Service risks being an empty slogan unless it is backed with a renewed focus on working-age adults, and significant increase in funding for councils to meet rising costs and ensure the quality and safety of support is maintained.’
