Fulcrum Care’s Managing Director Responds to Wes Streeting’s Speech at Labour Party Conference 2024

Becky Garnett-Buchma, Managing Director of Fulcrum Care, has responded to the recent speech by Wes Streeting MP, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, delivered at the Labour Party Conference 2024. Becky, whose experience includes supporting hundreds of care homes across the country, recognises the urgency in addressing the deep-rooted challenges within the NHS and social care sector that Wes Streeting so frankly outlined.

“Wes Streeting’s speech brought to light some harsh but necessary truths about the current state of our health and social care system,” Becky said. “It was refreshing to hear an acknowledgement of the critical challenges, particularly around the ongoing crisis in social care and the need for reform. The reality is that care homes and the wider sector have been under immense pressure for years, and the impact of this on the quality of care provided to some of society’s most vulnerable individuals cannot be ignored.”

Becky particularly welcomed the emphasis on addressing the issues within social care and the recognition of the interconnectedness between the NHS and the social care sector. “The fact that he highlighted the need to elevate the status and pay of care professionals is a significant step forward,” Becky commented. “We’ve seen firsthand how recruitment and retention issues continue to plague the sector, with many talented and dedicated care workers leaving due to poor pay and working conditions. A ‘New Deal for Care Professionals,’ as he mentioned, is not just a slogan – it’s a necessary shift if we want to maintain a sustainable workforce in care homes across the UK.”

She also noted the emphasis on preventative care and technology as essential components of reform. “His call for a move from ‘analogue to digital’ and focusing on prevention rather than just treatment is exactly what the sector needs,” Becky stated. “Care homes are increasingly working with individuals with complex needs, and being able to identify health concerns early can make a massive difference in outcomes. However, this requires investment in training, technology, and infrastructure, which many care providers currently struggle to afford.”

However, Becky expressed caution about the scale of reform that Wes Streeting proposes, acknowledging that while the vision is ambitious, the challenge lies in the implementation. “It’s easy to talk about reform, but the reality is that care homes have been facing financial pressures for years, with many struggling to keep their doors open. We’ve seen an increase in enforcement actions and closures, and unless there is real, tangible support for the sector, including adequate funding and resources, the risk is that many more will be forced out, leaving a significant gap in care provision.”

Becky was also clear about the need for the government to work closely with care providers, regulators, and other stakeholders. “To truly make the reforms successful, there needs to be genuine collaboration across the board. Care homes have a wealth of experience and insight into what works and what doesn’t, and their voices need to be heard in shaping the future of health and social care.”

In closing, Becky welcomed Wes Streeting’s vision of an NHS and social care sector fit for the future, one that is more integrated, innovative, and fair for everyone. “At Fulcrum Care, we see every day the incredible work that care professionals do, often in extremely challenging circumstances. It’s time they were given the respect, recognition, and support they deserve. If the Labour Party’s proposals can deliver on this promise, then it’s a step in the right direction for everyone who relies on the care sector.”

About Fulcrum Care

Fulcrum Care is a leading consultancy supporting care homes across the UK in improving standards, achieving compliance, and navigating regulatory challenges. With extensive experience in the sector, Fulcrum Care offers expert guidance and practical solutions to care providers, helping them deliver the highest quality care to residents.

For more information, please contact:

Rebecca Garnett-Buchma

Email: rebecca.buchma@fulcrum.care

Phone:  0203 411 4014