A survey by BBC/CIPFA suggests a North-South divide in Adult Social Services. Above the line between the Bristol Channel and the Wash (north-west East Anglia) the budgets have been reduced by a little under 5%, where as the budgets below that line are increased by almost 3%. Once again the richer South gets the most money. The North always needed central grants from the wealthier south which has a larger income due to council tax. Nothing new, but now it is rather shocking to notice that the budgets on adult social services are increasing for the richer southerners and declining for the poorer northerners. This may have long-term consequences socially. Many people in the most deprived parts of England are afraid they will lose their care package and many fear they are doomed to a life of existence rather then a life.
Personal comment:
I understand the government’s need to carefully spend their money, but somehow it seems unfair that those who already have less, should economize the most. As in the Netherlands the costs on health care keep rising and the budgets become tighter. But, I reckon that in the south of England there are more and probably better facilities for vulnerable adults. They can operate more cost-sufficient. I think, however, that it is not fair to provide lesser care for similar vulnerable adults up in the north. They are entitled to the same care and it is not just to punish them, because they live in the wrong area.
Geen opmerkingen:
Een reactie posten