Prime Minister Andy Burnham has announced plans to accelerate reform of England’s adult social care system, describing it as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create a “world-leading” service that ensures dignity and support for older people. Speaking at a care home in North London, Burnham pledged to commit full political effort toward addressing what he called a “broken” system that, if left unchanged, risks leading to the collapse of the National Health Service (NHS).
Burnham has called for cross-party talks to develop proposals for reform, inviting Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch and Liberal Democrat Sir Ed Davey to join discussions. While Badenoch declined to attend personally, Shadow Health Secretary Stuart Andrew is set to represent the Conservative Party. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage criticized the talks as closed-door deals between established parties and condemned Burnham’s preferred funding plan—a proposed 10 percent social care levy on inheritances—labeling it a “death tax” that could cost homeowners tens of thousands of pounds.
The social care levy, which remains the most prominent funding option on the table, is projected to raise approximately £18.5 billion. However, how this cost would be met has not been fully detailed by the government. Alternatives under consideration include a new tax on income, potentially requiring workers over 34 to contribute a percentage of earnings into a privately managed fund for future care costs. These proposals have drawn skepticism from opposition figures and the public, especially given the absence of a direct mandate for such major changes.
The Prime Minister emphasized that successive governments have deferred social care reform because of its complexity and political sensitivity. Baroness Louise Casey, who launched a review of the sector last year, has been asked to accelerate her work and facilitate a “Big Conversation on Care” to gather public and expert input. Casey highlighted the urgency in moving beyond an “unfair, unpredictable and broken” system to build something more sustainable.
Advocates warn the social care system is at a breaking point, with numerous studies underscoring significant unmet needs among older adults. Charity reports indicate millions struggle with basic daily tasks such as dressing, bathing, and eating without adequate support, leading to increased risks of injury and hospital admissions. Caroline Abrahams, a director at Age UK, stressed that reformed care would help individuals avoid the isolation and hardship currently faced by many.
Critics, however, caution against funding reform through new taxes or inheritances levies, arguing these could impose heavy financial burdens amid already high tax levels. Some suggest the required funds should come from spending cuts rather than tax hikes. With 22 previous attempts at social care reform since 1997 failing to resolve systemic issues, public confidence remains cautious about whether meaningful progress can be achieved.
Burnham’s personal connection to the issue—his father suffers from Alzheimer’s and resides in a care home—adds a poignant dimension to his commitment. Yet, questions remain about the political feasibility and financial mechanism that will ultimately underpin any successful overhaul of England’s adult social care system.