Local MP James Morris last week invited David Mowat MP, Minister responsible for social care, to Halesowen & Rowley Regis for discussions on the future challenges facing the sector and to welcome news of extra local funding.
James took Mr Mowat MP to Grange Hill Care Home in Halesowen, and held a roundtable discussion with care providers, GP’s and professionals in Rowley Regis.
During the visit plans for increased social care funding were confirmed, which will be allocated to local authorities in order to relieve the pressures facing the social care system locally.
Our social care system cares for over a million people, and this in turn puts pressure on the NHS. That is why the Government has already delivered more than £7 billion extra spending power to the system over the next three years, and is ensuring local authorities work more closely with the NHS.
MP James Morris said, “I am taking very seriously the challenges we face in our social care sector and I was pleased to confirm with the Minister that Dudley Council will be receiving an extra £13.8m and Sandwell Council an extra £15.1m to help relieve the pressure locally.
This funding will help local councils and our local NHS.”
Local care home owner, and Vice-President of the National Care Association Tony Billingham said, “I am thankful to James for organising this visit so that I was able to show the Minister first-hand the services we provide, and explain to him direct the challenges we are facing.
I am confident that the Minister listened and understood the issues raised, and pleased to hear that as part of the Budget money will be made available locally.”